Why are those keytops BLUE?

Written By Jonathan Ho

Why are the keytops blue?

This piano is being rebuilt, but we want to refresh the action parts and key sticks rather than replacing them to allow us to keep the original ivory keys.

Before Cleaning - Part 1

Before Cleaning - Part 2

Even though it may not dramatically improve the piano’s playing performance, it does impact how the technicians may physically handle the various action parts while rebuilding the action.  Cleaning off dust and grime that is 50+ years old helps us work more efficiently and accurately, and contributes to the overall cleanliness of the instrument.

After Cleaning - Part 1

After Cleaning - Part 2

To accomplish this, the keytops are covered with painters tape to protect them while being cleaned with a sandblaster. Once the sand blasting removes most of the bulk of the grime from the keys, sandpaper is used to gently clear any remaining dirt from the wood closest to the keytops.

Comparison

The keys on the left have been sandblasted. The ones on the right are still dirty.

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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