A date with a Petrof Concert Grand

Most technicians are familiar with Petrof pianos. They are a Czech company dating back to 1864. I've seen some grands and uprights but this week I had a date with a Model I.

A Model I is 9'4" concert model with a Renner action, Abel hammers, an open pin block design (like a Bosendorfer), and a removable capo (also like a Bosendorfer). So, how does it sound?

Petrof pianos have an interesting mix of tones. The best I can describe it would be as if Schimmel and Schulte-Pollman got together. I know, that's an obscure reference, but you could put Schimmel and Yamaha in there and get the same effect. This piano has a good bass, a complex tenor, and good projection in the treble without getting shrill. It's really quite nice.

As I've work my way through giving this piano what it needs and deserves the tone and scope of the instrument has come alive. Here's a quick check list that I put it through:

• Hammer Filing

• Eliminate Excessive Friction - Lubricate action centers (Protek CLP), knuckles (teflon powder), repitition lever / jack tops (TFL-50), polish capstans (Noxon)

• Action regulation

• Voicing - Deep shoulder, high shoulder, and near-crown needling

• Tuning - of course!
  

Here's a photo gallery of this fine piano.