The easiest solution is to use an electronic piano where the pedals are
triggered by electronic switches instead of a physical piano which uses
wooden "trap-work" with resistance provided strong springs.  I believe that
almost any momentary switch would work for this purpose with most modern
keyboards.  Of course, you would have to try it.  There are some really
decent digital pianos on the market right now.  With one of these
instruments you could also adjust the height of the stand to accommodate a
wheel chair.

Adapting a real spinet or baby grand with solenoids and servos would be much
more expensive, and difficult, and have the unwanted side effect of noise.

Jerry Skelley
Adaptive Tech Specialist (and also a professional pianist)
Cape Cod Community College


-----Original Message-----
From: Kathleen Cahill [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wednesday, May 15, 2002 12:23 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Adapting piano pedals??


Hi;

I got a call from a piano technician who is looking for ideas to adapt foot
pedals for the piano for a woman who does not have use of her legs.  Any
ideas from EASI's brilliant minds?  Switches, solenoids, etc...???  I will
pass on all your good ideas to him.

Many thanks,
Kathy

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Kathy Cahill
MIT Adaptive Technology (ATIC) lab
77 Mass. Ave. 11-103
Cambridge MA 02139
(617) 253-5111
[log in to unmask]