Julius Blüthner grand and upright piano technician · Aliquot stringing understood · S$120–S$700+ · Islandwide
Julius Blüthner of Leipzig has been making pianos since 1853 and is renowned for its distinctive warm, singing tone — particularly the characteristic bloom of the upper register produced by the aliquot stringing system unique to Blüthner grands. Piano Repair Singapore services Blüthner upright and grand pianos with an understanding of the specific technical requirements that distinguish these instruments from other European makes.
Blüthner pianos in Singapore require a technician who understands the aliquot string system — a fourth string above each note in the upper treble section that vibrates sympathetically and must be managed correctly during tuning. Treating a Blüthner grand like a standard three-string piano will compromise the tone and stability of the instrument.
Each note in the top two octaves of a Blüthner grand has a fourth string — the aliquot string — positioned slightly above the hammer strike line. It is not struck but vibrates freely in sympathy with the three played strings. This adds warmth, richness and a characteristic bloom to Blüthner's treble tone.
The aliquot strings must be kept at the correct pitch relative to the three played strings — they contribute to overall tone even when unplayed. A technician unfamiliar with this system may ignore the aliquot strings, leaving the instrument's treble tone unstable. We tune aliquot strings correctly on every visit.
| Service | Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Blüthner piano tuning (inc. aliquot strings) | S$120–S$200 |
| Action regulation — upright | S$250–S$450 |
| Action regulation — grand | S$450–S$700 |
| Piano voicing | S$200–S$500 |
| Vintage restoration assessment | S$80–S$150 |
Written quote after inspection. Aliquot string replacement quoted separately if required.
We understand Blüthner's unique construction. WhatsApp your model for accurate advice.
Blüthner grand pianos use a patented aliquot stringing system — a fourth sympathetically vibrating string is added to each note in the upper treble section. This string is not struck by the hammer but resonates freely, adding warmth and sustain characteristic of the Blüthner sound. We understand this system and handle aliquot strings correctly during tuning and string replacement — they require separate tuning and must not be confused with standard bass strings.
Blüthner piano tuning — including correct management of aliquot strings — costs S$120–S$200 in Singapore, islandwide. The additional charge over standard tuning reflects the extra attention required for aliquot string management on grand models.
Blüthner parts are sourced through our European specialist supply network. Standard action parts (hammers, shanks, flanges) and strings are available with lead time. For vintage Blüthner instruments (pre-1970), aliquot bridge components and certain action parts may require custom sourcing — we advise on availability and lead time at inspection.
Aliquot stringing understood. C. Blüthner and Haessler serviced islandwide.