Why should I tune my piano? 

Frequently, piano owners don’t understand why their pianos should be tuned, because they can’t tell the difference between a tuned and an un-tuned piano.  The reason for this is due to the fact that these owners have played an un-tuned piano for so long that it sounds normal to them.  The result is that the pianist develops a very poor sense of pitch, and learning to play by ear is nearly impossible with a poorly maintained piano.  Consider what other instrumentalists such as guitar players or oboe players do before any practice session or performance:  they tune their instrument.  As a result, they tend to develop a good sense of pitch, while pianists usually do not.

Why does a piano go out of tune? 

Please see the web page titled “Humidity Control.”

How is a piano tuned?

There are many different variations for piano tuning, and some methods are more effective than others.  The tuning methods that Brent uses are designed to achieve optimal tuning stability and accuracy.  The first action Brent will perform is a “pitch-raise.”  A pitch-raise is a rough tuning that is done before fine tuning, as this is almost always necessary.  Most tuners will charge an extra fee for this service, but Brent does not (unless the piano is severely out of tune).  Brent always performs the pitch-raise with the aid of an electronic tuning device (ETD) to ensure superior accuracy and efficiency.

If this is the first visit, Brent will usually perform another service after the pitch raise:  Brent will push the strings down onto the bridge and around the hitch pins (see photos).    The purpose for this service is to enhance both the clarity and sustain of the piano while improving tuning stability.  The difference in the tone of the piano after this service is an obvious improvement.  This step may not always be possible due to time restrictions.

The final step in Brent’s tuning process is to fine tune the piano.  Typically, Brent will fine tune the piano by ear, which is the traditional tuning method.  In some cases, Brent will perform the fine tuning using an ETD.  This will usually be done when time restrictions prevent aural tuning, when the environment is too noisy, or when the piano is a spinet or baby grand.

Which is better:  tuning with an electronic tuning device (ETD) or tuning by ear? 

This subject has the topic of much debate among piano tuners.  After thoroughly learning both methods, Brent is convinced that neither method is inherently superior.  The truth is this:  either method can produce superior or inferior results, depending on the piano technician.  However, any piano technician that is using and ETD must also have complete command of aural tuning in order to use the ETD properly. 

Why is this so?  Consider how the use of a GPS navigation device has revolutionized the experience of driving for many of us.  The GPS can help us find our destination with ease, but it can’t drive the car.  Poor drivers using a GPS are still poor drivers.  The same is true with piano tuners.  While the use of an ETD can help a piano tuner find the proper pitch more easily, the ETD cannot help the piano tuner use the tuning lever properly.  Proper use of the tuning lever is critical for tuning stability.  Another problem that the ETD user will sometimes encounter will be poor tuning results generated from the ETD computer.  That is, some of the octaves, fifths, and fourths may not sound right.  Finally, all ETDs will eventually fail, whether it is from software malfunction, from hardware failure, or from battery depletion.

How long does it take to tune a piano?

Typically, one hour is required for tuning.  If other services need to be provided, such as pushing the strings down onto the bridge, an extra half-hour to one hour may be needed.  Tell Brent at the beginning of the appointment if there are time restrictions.

How often should my piano be tuned?

In general, a piano should be tuned at least twice per year.  Pianos that are used in institutional settings should be tuned at least once per month, and pianos that are used for recording or concerts should be tuned several hours before each use.  Pianos that are not used at all don’t need to be tuned, as lack of tuning will not damage the piano.  The primary negative consequence for not tuning a piano for a long period of time will be the need for several pitch-raises when it is finally tuned, and the piano may not have good tuning stability for several months afterward.

Pushing strings onto the bridge.

Pushing strings around hitch pins.