Tuning Your Piano

Piano tuning consists of tightening the 220 or so strings that are located inside the piano case. Where appropriate, the strings are grouped and tuned to each other. This is called unison tuning. These groups of unisons are also tuned to a selected temperament that gives the piano the appropriate tone color and sound that is desired for the piano.

How often should I have my piano tuned?
There are several variables that affect the answer to this question. First, the age of the piano can affect how often you tune it. Is the piano brand new off the showroom floor? If so, then you will probably want it tuned several times in the first year as the piano get accustomed to its new environment. The piano will be stabilizing in that first year of existence.

For those of you who want to know how many times you should tune your piano a year, I recommend every 6 months for pianos that are being used by students who play and practice every day for a good amount of time. If your piano is not played everyday, but you still want it to remain in tune, then once a year would be adequate for your use and needs.

What is a Pitch Raise?
If you have an old piano or have inherited a piano that hasn't been tuned in many years, it may require a "over tuning" of the strings to reacclimate the the pianos strings to being wound tight at A440 tuning. In these cases, doing a standard tuning would probably cause the piano to drop pitch and come out of tune. Talk with technician about whether or not your piano is in need of a "pitch raise."

How much do you charge?
Pianos are tuned by different tuners with different tuning abilities. Each piano is unique in its make, environment, and use. Based on these and other factors, we can discuss what your piano needs and come to how much it will cost. Let's diagnose your situation and what work needs to be done. That will allow us to come up with the charge for service.