Piano Voicing (Tone Regulating) Explained

Piano voicing, also known as tone regulating, is usually referring to the process of adjusting the parts of the piano to produce a change in the tonal quality aiming for a desired sound. You are never stuck with a piano sounding the way it does and there are many variables that can change voicing; from simply using the pedals to affect tone or having a technician re-align, re-shape, or alter the density of the felts covering the hammers striking the string to produce a warmer or brighter tone. Some things that affect voicing include hardness” or “softness” of the hammer felt, the weight of each hammer, the shape (“crown”) of the soundboard, a piano’s case design and construction, materials used throughout the piano, and the placement of your piano in a room. On a basic level, each individual playing the same instrument can produce different tonal qualities or voice just from their unique playing style. There are a number of artists who use a prepared pianos; tacks on the hammers, alternative tunings, items placed inside can add unique texture when the piano is played. Let's take a closer look at piano voicing...