Modernisation
The original soul,
the technique of today
The observation
The pianos of the late 19th and early 20th centuries possess an irreplaceable musical soul — a timbre, a warmth, a sensitivity that contemporary instruments cannot always reproduce.
The observation
Yet tastes have evolved and the performer's control over their instrument has been considerably refined. Original actions, designed for another era, no longer always meet the demands of today's musicians.
Through my work as a piano maker and my high-precision equipment, I design and build entirely bespoke actions, adapted to each instrument. The objective is constant: to move up in dimension, aiming for the technical capability of the modern piano, without ever altering the sonic magic of the original instrument.
Restoring to the original
Preserving the original state, replacing what is worn with parts faithful to the period design. The instrument recovers what it was — nothing more, nothing less.
Going beyond the original
Designing a new action, adapted to current playing standards, while preserving the voice and sonic character of the historical instrument. A step further.
How it works
Instrument diagnosis
Analysis of the existing action, assessment of the general condition, identification of current technical limitations and the musician's objectives.
Action design
Bespoke modelling of the new action, dimensioned for this specific instrument. Calculation of lever ratios, pivot points, tolerances.
CNC machining
Parts manufactured by the workshop's CNC milling machine — precise to 0.05 mm, capable of accommodating an entire piano. No subcontracting.
Assembly and regulation
Installation, fine regulation of each note. Touch is calibrated to the musician's requirements: key weight, depth, responsiveness.
Voicing
Voicing work to ensure the new action liberates — rather than betrays — the sonic signature of the original instrument.
Landmark achievement
Pleyel 1bis — 243 cm
A Pleyel 1bis of 243 cm from the early 20th century — one of the great concert grands from the Parisian manufacturer — completely restored and fitted with a newly designed action block.
This integration gives it a touch and responsiveness very close to our contemporary instruments, without altering its original musical character. A concrete demonstration of what modernisation brings: every part designed, dimensioned and machined for this specific instrument.
Achievements · 01
Pleyel 1bis
Pleyel Manufacture — Early 20th century — 243 cmOne of the great concert grands from the Parisian manufacturer, in its most accomplished version. This instrument received a newly designed action block made at the workshop, together with restringing and complete voicing.
Result: a touch and responsiveness very close to a contemporary instrument, with the sonic character of a period Pleyel intact. A concrete demonstration of what modernisation brings.
Intervention record
The objective
“Moving up in dimension, aiming for the technical capability of the modern piano,
without ever altering the sonic magic of the original instrument.”
Your instrument
An instrument to transform?
Each project is unique. Get in touch to discuss your instrument, your need or your idea — I will reply personally.
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