I had the opportunity tonight to attend a lecture by David Kirkland, the most knowledgeable man living on Steinway pianos, and author of this book.  If you ever need to call in for a Steinway warranty question you’re most likely to speak with David.  He was invited to come to Daynes Music to present to all members of the Utah and Salt Lake Chapters of the Piano Technician’s Guild.  It was very informative!

Another thing I learned was the difference between Hamburg Steinway hammers and New York Steinway hammers (Hamburg’s are glued all the way around the core and NY hammers are not glued at the crown of the core – that’s why it can be slid off as depicted.  This difference creates a higher flexibility to be voiced on the NY hammers, vs. more of a bright tone on the Hamburg hammers.  Very interesting!

NY hammer on R, Hamburg on L

NY hammer on R, Hamburg on L