Carol of The Bells

University of Mobile Christmas Spectacular - Enjoy!

Now if that doesn't get you in the holiday mood, I just do not know what will.

Merry Christmas from the Staff at Forte' Piano Gallery!

Hammer Shanks

The last piece of our hammer assembly is the 'shank'.  This is a long & slender shaped action piece.  Hammer shanks are produced in various sizes and shapes depending on the manufacture and model of piano.  All are generally cylindrical in shape.

On one end the hammer head is mounted (this strikes the string to produce the sound), and on the opposite end, the shank is attached to the flange (holds the hammer/shank assembly in position to precisely strike the string).

Grand Piano - Wooden Hammer Shank

Traditionally made of wood, hammer shanks are now also produced in a composite material that includes carbon fiber, creating a hammer shank that is strong and consistent in strength without being effected by humidity and climate changes.

Grand Piano - Carbon Fiber Composite Hammer Shank

 I love this picture above - don't the hammers look like little faces?  I like to call this one the "3 Stooges".  :)

Vertical Piano
Wooden Hammer Shank

We'll talk more about composite action parts as we move through the piano's action.


Next week - Whippen Assembly!


"The Disclaimer" - Technical Tuesdays are intended to give folks who are curious about pianos a bit more understanding of all those technical terms thrown about by piano technicians.  This is not intended for super in-depth technical analysis, nor micro measurements; just general knowledge for those who are interested in how a piano works.

Calling All Young Musicians!

If you are a young musician (or know one) between the ages of 10 & 18 years, start warming up your instrument! The Ocala Youth Symphony's 12th Season Auditions are fast approaching!

OYS provides solo and ensemble opportunities for young musicians, while encouraging excellence in musicianship. Performances have been enjoyed by our community since 1999, and this season promises to be lively, indeed! The annual Ocala Arts Festival, collaboration with the Ocala Symphony Orchestra, and several other venues are scheduled for this year. All genres of music are played: Classical, Contemporary, Big Band, Jazz, Country & more!

Musicians are needed in all areas:
Strings: violin, viola, cello, double bass; Woodwinds: clarinet, flute, oboe, bassoon; Brass: trumpet, trombone, french horn, tuba; Percussion: snare, bass, timpani; and last, but certainly not least: piano and harp.

Where: First Christian Church, 1908 SE Ft. King St., Ocala, FL 34471

When: Saturday, August 21, 2010 & Saturday, August 28, 2010

Contact: Mrs. Cindy Robertson, Conductor (352) 854-7989

Preparation: Bring with you a prepared piece of music; sight reading and scales will be provided.

Visit the Symphony's website: http://www.ocalayouthsymphony.org/