FAQ
What is a fine tune?
A fine tune is needed when a piano isn't far out of tune. Typically regularly tuned pianos (tuned a minimum once a year) need fine tunes. However, this is not a guarantee.
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What is a pitch raise?
A pitch raise is when a piano is far enough out of tune to require two or more tunings: the initial tuning(s) bring the piano up to pitch and the final tuning is the fine tune. Often a piano that goes over a year or more without being tuned requires a pitch raise, but is also not guaranteed.
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What is regulation?
Regulation is the technical work that manages the touch and feel of the piano. Over time the action parts change and require regulating for optimal performance. This service is not needed as frequently as tunings.
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What is voicing?
Voicing is the maintenance that manages tone evenness throughout the piano.
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How do I know if my piano needs regulation or voicing?
If your piano is difficult to play or there are inconsistencies in the touch, it likely could use regulation. If you are unhappy with certain tones being produced, you might ask your technician about voicing. In both scenarios, having your technician assess potential regulation and voicing needs while receiving a tuning is never a bad idea.
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I'm interested in more than just a tuning. Should I choose a half day or full day appointment?
This depends on the condition and what you want done. Both services include some combination of the three maintenance branches: regulation, voicing and tuning (as well as repairs if needed). If the piano is quite old, has been neglected for several years, and there are known needed repairs, a full day is recommended to provide adequate time to address all needs. A full day service is also recommended when a concert level service is desired on a regularly maintained piano. If the piano has been neglected for several years, but plays decently well, a half day will suffice.
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How often should my piano be tuned?
Piano technicians recommend yearly at a minimum, but this really depends on use. Even if a piano is never played, yearly tunings are recommended for keeping the instrument in good conditions. More heavily played pianos can be tuned every 6 months or more frequently if desired.
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Is the location of the piano in the house important?
It is recommended that the piano not sit in direct sunlight. This can cause fading and discoloration of the case work. It is also good practice to keep the environment the piano is in consistent and stable to preserve the quality of the tuning, and direct sunlight will make that challenging. If the house is well insulated, putting the piano on an outer wall will not impact the tuning as much as is commonly believed.
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