The Score Magazine July-Aug issue | Page 52

Why Do Piano Keys Stick at Times ?

This is a situation that almost all piano players would have faced . You are about to start playing a track or start your exercise and bam , there ’ s a key that ’ s stuck and doesn ’ t come back up after you press it . Pressed keys are one of the most common problems piano owners face . A lot of times , just pressing it a few times can also work but that ’ s more of a “ hit the top of the TV to make it work ” solution . There are a number of possible causes of keys sticking , so it can be difficult to know whether you need professional piano key repair or a simple doit-yourself amateur fix .
Bushing Issues
Inside each key on your piano are two metal pins that help hold the key in place . These pins pass through small holes in the bottom of the key and these holes are covered with a thin felt called bushing cloth or simply bushing . Brand new pianos often feel a little stiff because the bushing is extra tight ; that is , it is tightening the rail pins more than necessary . Moisture can also cause the switch bushing to swell , causing it to hold the rail pins too tight , and this is actually one of the most common culprits when it comes to heavy switches . It is also one of the most complex problems to fix . Adjusting or replacing bushings requires absolute care and precision , so we recommend professional help if you think this might be the problem .
Crooked Pieces
Because many piano parts are made of wood , they are extremely sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity . Over time , they can bend and change shape . For example , the wood in front of the keys ( called the keyring or front railing ) can sometimes swell , causing some keys to rub against it .
Keys are also actually made of wood . Although often referred to as ‘ ivory ’, most
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