Agraffe
Encyclopedia
An agraffe is a part found on some piano
s. The agraffe is a guide at the tuning-pin end of the string, screwed into the plate, with holes through which the strings pass. It anchors the strings
, ensures proper height and determines the speaking length of the string. Quality agraffes are usually made of solid brass but can be painted or electroplated. They come in 1, 2 or 3-string configurations. They also are available in 2 different sizes (1/4" and 7/32"). The string holes are usually countersunk. They must be installed perpendicular to the strings and their height is adjusted using thin brass shims. They are sometimes difficult to remove and a broken agraffe usually requires a lengthy repair (especially if they are broken into the plate. Worn string holes sometimes cause a buzzing sound which can be corrected by filing inside the agraffe string hole to remove the imperfection.
Piano
The piano is a musical instrument played by means of a keyboard. It is one of the most popular instruments in the world. Widely used in classical and jazz music for solo performances, ensemble use, chamber music and accompaniment, the piano is also very popular as an aid to composing and rehearsal...
s. The agraffe is a guide at the tuning-pin end of the string, screwed into the plate, with holes through which the strings pass. It anchors the strings
Strings (music)
A string is the vibrating element that produces sound in string instruments, such as the guitar, harp, piano, and members of the violin family. Strings are lengths of a flexible material kept under tension so that they may vibrate freely, but controllably. Strings may be "plain"...
, ensures proper height and determines the speaking length of the string. Quality agraffes are usually made of solid brass but can be painted or electroplated. They come in 1, 2 or 3-string configurations. They also are available in 2 different sizes (1/4" and 7/32"). The string holes are usually countersunk. They must be installed perpendicular to the strings and their height is adjusted using thin brass shims. They are sometimes difficult to remove and a broken agraffe usually requires a lengthy repair (especially if they are broken into the plate. Worn string holes sometimes cause a buzzing sound which can be corrected by filing inside the agraffe string hole to remove the imperfection.