Piano manufacturers recommend two to four tunings per year. The more money
you have invested in your piano, the more important it is to follow their advice. If the
piano isn’t played at all, it is still necessary to tune it a minimum of once a year. Any
instrument that hasn’t been serviced in several years will need at least one or more
additional pitch raises (rough tunings) just to bring it up to the proper pitch ( A=440 ).
The greater the pitch adjustment, the greater the cost of getting it back in tune. This extra
expense can be avoided by simply following a regimented tuning schedule set by your
piano technician.
Try to schedule a tuning when it is as quiet as possible. TVs, radios, washing
machines, lawnmowers, etc., should be turned off when the tuner arrives. Extraneous
noise will affect the quality if the tuning.
Do not place the piano in front of a hot air duct or in sunlight. Direct sunlight
deteriorates the piano’s finish and color. An inside wall is highly recommended for tuning
stability. Never place anything containing water on the piano such as glasses, cups, on
flowerpots. This can also ruin the finish and throw your piano out of tune.
Do not attempt to clean the inside of your piano. Your technician is especially
equipped and trained to handle this problem. All pianos should be dust vacuumed at least
once every ten to fifteen years for an additional minimal fee. This helps keep keys from
sticking. Aerosol sprays and oils should be avoided around strings and tuning pins of any
piano. Grand pianos are especially vulnerable to damage because open lids expose their
interior. Consult your manufacturer’s recommendation on case cleaning and polishing.
All pianos react to changes in temperature and humidity. Therefore, if a piano is
placed by an open window, fireplace, radiator (heat or air-conditioning vents) it will go
out of tune much more rapidly and could cause expensive mechanical problems. Pianos
which are situated in basements or near water ( such a lake or ocean) usually require the
installation of an inside piano dehumidifier. Room dehumidifiers are totally ineffective.
All pianos will change pitch when moved to another room or house and will require an
immediate re-tuning.
Finally, ALWAYS consult your piano technician whenever you have any
questions about the maintenance of your piano. Do not listen to “well-meaning ” friends
or even your piano teacher! This is like your neighbor giving you medical advice instead
of your doctor. Who would you listen to? It’s the same thing with your expert piano
technician who has been extensively trained and has successfully practiced this knowledge
for years. Also, never try to tune or repair a piano yourself. Again, your technician will
be happy to do it for you.
Therefore, the piano is a very delicate and complicated instrument that needs to
be cared for and maintained. Try to follow these suggestions and your piano will sound
and look beautiful and give you years and years of pleasure, not to mention retaining its
value!