Abstract: An improved method for the inertial balancing of a plurality of key assemblies having keysticks within a musical instrument keyboard wherein an individual front weight is predetermined for each stick, the method consisting of calibrating each of the keysticks to an identical selected front weight prior to installing the key leads to a preset pattern which result in the final individual front weight for each key assembly.

Abstract: In the balancing of piano key mechanisms according to the invention, counterweights are placed in each piano key to balance said key mechanism in order to create a smooth linear progression of key front weights along a keyboard, thereby providing a keyboard with a more uniform "feel" to the piano keys when played by a pianist.

Abstract: An adjustable friction grand piano hammer shank having bifurcated ends disposed on either side of a flange with a slot defined in each bifurcated end, a pivot pin receipt hole defined in each bifurcated end aligned with the slots, a strap having one end affixed to the bottom of one of the bifurcated portions extending therearound to form a loop around an adjustment screw with the strap's other end extending around the other bifurcated end to be affixed to the bottom of the other bifurcated end such that tightening the screw pulls on the strap and tightens together the portions of the bifurcated hammer shank ends above and below the slots to increase friction against the pivot pin and conversely, loosening the adjustment screw releases tension on the strap allowing the ends above and below the slot to be under less tension and reducing friction on the pivot pin.