Tunings and Repairs
Tunings
A basic tuning requires approximately one hour's time. Ideally a piano should be tuned to concert pitch (A-440).
If it has not been tuned for a long time, most likely the pitch of the piano is far enough below the concert pitch standard to require a pitch adjustment*. This involves double tuning the piano by first raising the pitch (stretching the strings) to the standard A-440, and then performing a regular tuning. This procedure is more expensive and destabilizes the piano. It should then be re-tuned within a few weeks, or at most, 3 months after raising the piano pitch.
Reasons to pitch adjust a piano:
The piano is designed to sound best at "concert" pitch.
To be in tune with other instruments
To be able to play with recorded music
Reasons not to pitch adjust a piano:
Loose tuning pins will not withstand increased tension.
In an old piano, brittle strings could break.
Cracked bridges and loose bridge pins may not hold strings in place.
*Over time, pianos drop in pitch, sometimes by as much as a half tone, and occasionally by a full tone. Several factors are involved, but close proximity to a heating source, and extreme fluctuations in temperature and humidity are two of the most common causes.
A "Piano Life Saver" humidity control system can be installed to achieve stability in a piano that doesn't stay in tune. I regularly install these systems, and have one in my own piano. Information and brochures are available upon request.
Repairs
Many minor repairs can be completed during the course of a tuning at no additional cost.
For major repairs, a price estimate will be given prior to doing the job.
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