A Review of Wessell, Nickel & Gross (WNG) - Part 1

Written By Jonathan Ho

Wessell, Nickel & Gross WNG is providing an improved action with a material that is more durable and consistent than wood.  The composite material is composed of plastic which is strong but flexible, paired with the added rigidity of fiber, resulting in parts that are better than wooden parts.

Just like how golf clubs and tennis rackets were made of wood 100 years ago, wood is naturally flexible and parts made of it may bend and wobble as they move about in the piano.  This creates inconsistency in the piano where each key may play slightly differently than others.

The epoxy carbon fiber action parts overcome this problem, and pianists are now able to deliver consistent performances.  Their parts can be customized to different pianos as well as different playing styles.  



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
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