Keep Piano In Perfect Pitch

Before you hire someone to tune your piano, know this:

Piano tuners aren’t called “tuners” anymore. They are piano technicians. Members of the Piano Technicians Guild advertise their affiliation in the Yellow Pages.

And know this, too: Even though you may get by with just one physical a year, your piano needs tuning at least twice a year to keep it in top condition. New pianos should be tuned three or four times the first year.

If a piano is allowed to stand for long periods without service, it will increasingly become out of tune. More time and expense will be required to achieve an accurate tuning.

Changes in pitch occur in all pianos. The association says these changes are caused primarily by the expansion and contraction of the soundboard. The moisture content of the wood increases during periods of high humidity and decreases when the air is dry.

Experts also advise placing the piano away from windows, outside doors, heating vents, fireplaces and other sources of extreme or sudden humidity or temperature changes.