Vintage pianos hold a special charm, combining decades of history with beautiful craftsmanship. Recently, Austin’s Piano Service had the privilege of working on a 1968 Kohler & Campbell upright piano in Montclair, NJ. While this piano was in relatively good shape for its age, it presented some structural issues that needed attention.
The Problem: Bass Bridge Separation
One of the primary challenges was the separation of the bass bridge from the apron, a common issue in older pianos. This separation caused a noticeable buzzing sound, especially in the low bass notes, which affected the piano’s tonal quality and overall performance.
The Solution: A Creative Shim Fix
To address the buzzing, I employed a straightforward yet effective solution:
- Inserting a Shim
- I used a business card as a shim, carefully inserting it between the bass bridge and the apron. This adjustment eliminated the buzzing sound and stabilized the connection.
- Testing the Result
- The improvement was captured in before-and-after videos, demonstrating how this small adjustment restored clarity to the piano’s bass notes.
Additional Repairs: Music Desk Enhancement
In addition to addressing the bass bridge issue, I also repaired the piano’s music desk. To enhance its appearance, I added a white punching, a subtle touch that improved both the functionality and aesthetics of this vintage instrument.
Why Addressing Structural Issues Matters
Structural issues like a separating bass bridge can compromise the sound and playability of a piano. While this 1968 Kohler & Campbell is showing its age, addressing problems as they arise helps extend its life and maintain its charm. Creative fixes like the shim demonstrate how even small adjustments can make a significant difference in performance.
Preserving the Past with Austin’s Piano Service
As a member of the Piano Technicians Guild, I’m dedicated to providing expert care for pianos of all ages and conditions. Whether it’s a modern grand or a vintage upright like this Kohler & Campbell, my goal is to bring out the best in every instrument I service.
If your piano needs tuning, repairs, or creative solutions for structural issues, contact Austin King today. Let’s work together to preserve the harmony and history of your piano.