From touch to string vibrations. I: Timing in the grand piano action

This article describes an experimental study of the timing in the grand piano action. The function of the action is described by timetables for the motions of the moving parts. Important timing properties included are the relation between key bottom contact and hammer–string contact, the interval of free hammer motion before the impact on the string, and the hammer–string contact duration. The influence of the regulation and dynamic level on these timing properties is analyzed. The results of the measurements are discussed, with a focus on the implications for piano playing, regulation, and design.