Customers often ask, “when should my piano be tuned again?” It depends on a number of factors, such as age, usage, climate, etc. Piano manufacturers suggest semi-annual tunings. However, for pianos in good condition, once per year is a good rule of thumb. The need for repairs can also be addressed during the tuning. The… Continue reading How long is too long between tunings?
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What is included in a typical piano tuning service?
As there seems to be a fair amount of confusion on this issue, please allow me to clarify. Piano tuning, by definition, is simply the process of bringing the strings up to standard pitch. That’s it! This, of course, assumes that the piano is tunable in the first place. Some pianos that have not received… Continue reading What is included in a typical piano tuning service?
Should I Buy An Upright Or Grand Piano?
This is one of our most frequently asked questions, so I thought I’d expand a bit on the important features of each. Upright Pianos Are Serious Contenders Providing the particular upright piano you’re considering is in good operating condition, it can be an excellent instrument to learn on. Some of the taller uprights have soundboards… Continue reading Should I Buy An Upright Or Grand Piano?
Of Mice and Moths
Some of the greatest dangers to your piano are largely undetected. I’m talking about mice and moths. Over a period of months and years, they can destroy your piano from the inside out. Normally, pianos that are played often are less likely to harbor these pests, but don’t count on it! Piano damage from mice… Continue reading Of Mice and Moths
When should I “upgrade” my piano?
There are a number of reasons why you may be considering a piano upgrade: My child (or I) needs a better piano to get the most from lessons. There is no question that a properly tuned and maintained piano is a necessity when learning to play. Having a good piano not only cultivates the ear,… Continue reading When should I “upgrade” my piano?
Should I buy a digital or acoustic piano?
The Great Debate – Digital vs. Acoustic Pianos Ever since the first digital pianos went mainstream in the 1980’s, this question has been asked, to which I reply…it depends… I have both types in my house, and wouldn’t want to be without either. There is nothing quite like practicing in the middle of the night… Continue reading Should I buy a digital or acoustic piano?
Piano Reconditioning vs. Rebuilding
OK. You’ve decided to keep Aunt Betsy’s piano. Besides, it looks rather nice in that corner of the living room. But since you (or the kids) are also thinking about starting lessons, is the piano up to the task? First, the bad news: Many “heirloom” pianos have been neglected, and need some work to sound… Continue reading Piano Reconditioning vs. Rebuilding
What To Do When Your Piano Won’t Stay In Tune
Why won’t my piano stay in tune? Here’s what to do when your piano refuses to get in, or stay in, tune. Have your piano technician perform pitch map and pin torque tests. These will determine the condition of the pinblock – the most important part of any piano. If the test results reveal an… Continue reading What To Do When Your Piano Won’t Stay In Tune
When Your Piano Seems To Be Beyond (Reasonable) Repair
A piano that has been in the family for many years – even generations, is often an object of great sentimental value. After all, it has adorned the living room, endured many practice sessions, received many a dusting, and has stubbornly resisted relocation attempts. Perhaps the best reason why we keep it has to do… Continue reading When Your Piano Seems To Be Beyond (Reasonable) Repair
How not to buy a used piano
Love at first sight I thought of naming this post “How to buy a used piano,” but remembered how often the advice I give to clients is ignored. They fall in love with the magnificent cabinetry, the original ivory keys, the exotic finish, or any of a dozen other attributes – both tangible and intangible.… Continue reading How not to buy a used piano