sounds like I'm using the sustaining pedal ALL THE TIME!

[chloe]

From 'middle' D downwards on my piano sounds like I'm permanently using the sustaining pedal. Obviously this makes it pretty much impossible to play! Does anyone know what the problem is and if it is easy to fix?

[Barrie Heaton]

Has this problem just started or have you had it since you got the piano

Barrie,

[PianoGuy]

If it's an old piano:

Remove the top door which should be secured by a clip either side inside the cabinet.

Check to see that a small wooden or brass clip is in place securing the action (the bit with all the hammers and stuff on it) in to the piano on the left hand side about 1/3 the way down the inside of the cabinet.

If it's become unclipped, gently push the action home towards the back of the piano and secure the clip. This should improve matters.

Replace top door and play.

NB:
If your piano is improved by this small operation, you are in posession of an old clunker. Enjoy it for as long as you can bear it, then upgrade to a better piano as soon as you like.

[chloe]

The problem started a few months ago. I've had the piano about 10 years and it is tuned regularly and kept in a room without excessive variation of temperature. It is an old piano, yes! I'll go and play about with the insides a little later...

[Barrie Heaton]

PianoGuy has pointed out the most common on old pianos also look at the pedals some time that can get jammed up a bit

Barrie,

[chloe]

I finally got round to checking, and yes, the action had 'come unstuck'. So all is now sorted and playable!