FAQs and useful info
How often should I get my piano tuned?
To keep your piano consistently in tune it is generally advised to have it tuned every 6-12 months. There are a number of factors that may mean you need to have it tuned more often. these include,
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The frequency it is played. For example, a concert pianist that plays heavily every day will find that their piano will drift out of tune far more quickly than a piano that is only played occasionally.
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The requirements for the piano. For example a recording studio that need the piano to be 100% in tune all the time, may have the piano tuned multiple times a week. On the other hand a family that plays their piano once a week may only require it to be tuned once a year.
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The environment the piano is kept in - pianos kept in an environment that fluctuates in temperature or humidity will drift out of tune more quickly.
How long does it take to tune a piano?
The time required for tuning a piano varies depending on the type of piano and how out of tune it is.
A regular tuning takes between 2 and 2 and a half hours.
pitch raises (explained below) may take longer. (approx 3 - 3 and a half hours total)
Pianos with over damped 'bird cage' action may also take longer.
What is a pitch raise?
A pitch raise is needed when a piano has drifted significantly out of tune, usually going flat.
During this process, the entire instrument is first tuned slightly above concert pitch. As the tension across the strings and frame stabilises, the tuning naturally shifts. Once the piano has settled, a second fine tuning is performed to bring it accurately and securely to concert pitch.
Because this process is essentially tuning the piano twice, it naturally takes longer - but it’s essential for achieving a stable and accurate result. After a significant pitch raise, an additional tuning a few months later is often recommended to help maintain long-term stability as the strings continue to settle into their new tension.
Tuning my piano after it has been moved
After a piano has been moved, I recommend allowing it time to settle into its new environment before tuning. Ideally, this should be around one month, with a minimum of two weeks.
This settling period allows the piano’s wood components and strings to stabilise after the stress of moving, as well as adjust to any changes in temperature and humidity. Tuning too soon can result in the piano going out of tune again more quickly.
After the first tuning, the piano will continue to settle, although far less dramatically. To maintain a stable and accurate tuning, a second tuning 3-6 months after the first may be needed. After this the standard 6-12 month tunings can be resumed.
Choosing the right home for your piano
To protect your piano, there are a few important things to avoid when choosing its new home.
Keep the piano away from heat sources and fluctuations in humidity, such as radiators, vents, underfloor heating, fireplaces, damp areas, steam, and drafts. This is the most important consideration. Heat and humidity changes can warp wooden components and strings, leading to unstable tuning and, in the worst cases, serious cracking and major damage. I have personally seen beautiful pianos suffer soundboard cracks caused by underfloor heating.
Avoid direct sunlight. This is mainly a cosmetic concern rather than a structural one, as prolonged exposure can fade or damage the piano’s finish.
A good place for a piano is against an inner wall, positioned a few inches away from the wall to allow for improved resonance. It should be kept away from kitchens and bathrooms where steam is present, and well clear of any heat sources.
Free Pianos
Why you should be cautious
When considering a free or very inexpensive piano, it’s important to proceed carefully and consult a professional. While you may occasionally find a decent instrument, many “free” pianos end up being costly mistakes rather than the bargain they appear to be. Much like an old car, once a piano’s parts are worn out, the cost of repairs can far exceed the value of the instrument itself.
Worn or deteriorated components can make a piano unplayable or unable to hold its tuning properly. Additionally, if the piano turns out to be unusable, disposing of or moving it can also be surprisingly expensive. For these reasons, always evaluate free pianos with caution — and ideally with expert advice.