Q: Can the touch of my piano be changed ?

A: Generally, yes, but this depends on a number of issues. The touch of an action that is working normally, depends on :

            1. The design and type of the action

            2. The condition of the action (including the keyboard)

If the action is already working normally, changes to the regulation of the action in order to modify the touch can be made, but the touch advantages gained will usually have to be 'paid for' in some other aspect of the way the action operates. Usually this can be achieved without noticeable detriment to the working of the action. For precise details you need to consult the piano tuner-technician.

If the action is not working normally but is otherwise in very good condition, then usually improvements can be made all round.

If the action is old and worn, then larger scale restoration work or repairs may be necessary.

Fine action regulation is not a small job. There are about 4000 parts in the action.

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Q: How does the touch on a grand piano differ from that of an upright piano ?

A: The grand action design concept is quite different to that of the upright. Although both actions are generally intended to achieve the same thing, the modern grand action is more capable of achieving the aims then the modern upright action.

Essential Natural differences

In both actions, felt covered 'hammers' strike the strings.

In the upright action the hammer strikes the string by moving along a roughly horizontal arc, whilst the in the grand action the hammer strikes the string by moving along a roughly vertical arc. The effect of gravity in each case is quite different. In the grand action, the weight of the hammer (as distinct from its mass) acts almost directly in a direction away from the string. In the upright action, only a much smaller component of the hammer's weight does this. For equal strike velocities, the grand hammer returning from the string is more assisted by gravity than the upright hammer.

Gravity is also important in the damping mechanism. Dampers are felt covered components that stop the string from sounding when the note is released. In the grand piano, the dampers are held against the strings by gravity. In the upright action the damper is held against the string by the force of a spring. The two systems contribute different effects on the touch of the action. One (the upright) is 'elastic', whilst the other (the grand) is 'inertial'. 

Design differences

The modern grand action is a double escapement action, whilst the upright is a single escapement action. This means the well regulated grand action enables repetition more effectively than the upright. For example, on the modern upright piano, there is a certain minimum distance the key must be allowed to rise again after playing the note, before the note will repeat. If the key is not allowed to rise this full distance, depressing again will not sound the note. On the other hand, on a properly regulated modern grand action, practically all that is necessary in playing is to release the weight of the finger on the key, and the note can be repeated.

Grand actions in perfect condition may feel 'heavier' sometimes, than upright actions, but this is due to 'inertia' and not friction or spring force, and this has advantages for the experienced pianist. Grand actions are generally capable of a far wider range of response to the pianist's touch, than upright actions.

See About Piano Touch