How often should a piano be serviced?
- Every piano requires a different level of maintenance,
depending upon the quality of materials used in its' manufacture, the
design and level of craftsmanship, and the frequency and type of use
you give it. Most pianos should be tuned every six months. Some
will do well being serviced just once a year. Still others need tuning
and servicing very often, especially in churches, concert halls,
studios, schools and other places of frequent use.
Why does such an expensive instrument need
such frequent care?
- The piano is an instrument that will last a lifetime if
properly cared for. Unlike cars, major appliances, electronic devices,
computers, etc.
your piano will be an investment in the future that will not need
replacement
in a few years. Because it is such a valuable investment, it should be
maintained with care. Regular servicing by a qualified piano technician
will preserve your instrument and help prevent costly repair in the
future.
How does climate effect the piano?
- The piano is a wood, felt and metal device that is subject
to changes in climatic conditions. You can reduce the severity of these
changes by placing the piano away from windows or doors which are
opened frequently. Keep it away from heating and air conditioning
vents, fireplaces and areas which
receive direct sunlight. The optimal conditions for the piano are
around
70 degrees Farenheit and 42 percent relative humidity, but most
important
is to try to avoid big up or down swings in both temperature and
humidity.
What does it cost to tune and service a piano?
- The current price is $105.00 plus 7.25% Texas
State Salestax
($112.61 total). This price covers tuning and minor adjustments. The price for a non-tuning service-call for minor repair or evaluation is $75.00
What is a "Pitch-Adjustment"?
- If a piano has not been serviced in many years, it may
require a pitch adjustment. This is because the overall tension of the
strings has been
allowed to become significantly flat (or sometimes sharp). Most of the
time
this situation is corrected in stages with a pitch-correction now and
another tuning for stability in a short period of time (1 week to 2
months or so). The cost for this service is the same as paying for two
separate tunings.
What is "regulation"?
- Regulation is the adjustment of the mechanical aspects of
the pianos to compensate for the effects of wear, the compacting and
settling of cloth, felt, and buckskin, as well as dimensional changes
in wood and wool parts due to changes in humidity. The cost for this
service will vary according to the piano's need. While tuning corrects
the pitch of your piano, it is only one component of a complete
maintenance program. Regulation attends
to the touch and uniform responsiveness of your action, all vital to
making
each performance pleasurable. In addition, regulation ensures that your
instrument is capable of producing a wide dynamic range -- a critical
factor, particularly in pianissimo passages.
What are the signs that my piano needs
regulation?
- If your piano displays a lack of sensitivity or a
decreased dynamic ranges, it may need regulation. If you notice that
the keys are not level (some higher or lower than the rest), the touch
is uneven or that the keys are sticking, the need for regulation is
indicated.
Many more piano care tips can be found at the Piano Technicians Guild Homepage. |
