Wessell, Nickel & Gross (WNG) - Part 3

Written By Jonathan Ho

Moving from wood to synthetic materials is not the only change that WNG has brought along to help piano actions play better and last longer.

Bushings have tight tolerances and being able to keep them consistent is important. If they are too loose, the piano will feel difficult to keep in control. If they are too tight, the piano will feel unresponsive for the pianist.  Bushings are traditionally made of cloth, and can be sensitive to the changes in its environment. Hard bushings are developed to be resistant to humidity which helps pianos to need less maintenance.

Another improvement made by WNG is their use of synthetic buckskin.  The purpose of buckskin is to allow for parts to slide and reduce noise from parts tapping each other.  Parts that wear out will start making squeaks or clicks when they move, this synthetic material is designed to last longer than traditional buckskin.

There are several other small improvements that WNG has also brought to the table. Their “can this be done better?” philosophy has led to them making improvements everywhere throughout the piano. These innovations are interesting to observe and show how our piano has evolved throughout the decades.

Jonathan Ho

“When I imagine what it’s like to own my very own piano, my whole mindset changes when I see another piano. My approach and attention to detail becomes more personal and precise when I’m working on them.”

— Jonathan

Piano Technician and Performer

Jonathan grew up in Malaysia and lived in Vancouver before immigrating to the United States with his family. He earned his Bachelor of Music from the University of Central Oklahoma where he was a performer and taught piano lessons. In 2019, he moved to Boston to enroll in the piano technology program at North Bennet Street School, the oldest trade school in North America and widely considered to be the premier school of piano technology. During his time in Boston, he excelled in the intensive training program gaining an in-depth understanding of piano technology and service. After graduation, he was employed by two of the best piano rebuilders in the country (Oregon and Nebraska). In Nebraska, he continued to develop his service work with other technicians in the field in addition to the shop, gaining field tuning, regulation, and repair experience in both disciplines. Jonathan relocated to Saint Louis in 2023 to join the Vanguard Piano Service team and make the area his home.

Continued Education

Jonathan is passionate about piano technology and is committed to the continuing development of his craft. He attends the annual National and Regional Piano Technician Conventions. He has accepted opportunities to learn from other skilled piano professionals by visiting other technicians’ shops and touring manufacturer facilities. Jonathan will continue to enhance his skills by attending team trainings and professional development opportunities with the Piano Technician’s Guild.

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Wessell, Nickel & Gross (WNG) - Part 2