Piano Tuning
The piano is a very complex instrument, complete with over 500 moving parts. This makes tuning it properly a very time consuming and difficult job. There are more than 250 stings inside a piano. Starting with a string in the middle of the piano, each string is tested and tuned as needed. It is recommended you have your piano tuned twice a year, regardless of how often it is used.
The cost of having you piano tuned varies by location. The Piano Tuner’s Association does list minimum fees by area on their website. This is an excellent resource for getting some basis guidelines. The actual cost will be based on the type of piano, who is doing the work, as well as the experience and qualifications of the tuner. It is important to establish the cost prior to the tuning process beginning so that there are no arguments over the final price. Generally, the tuning process should take between 1 and 2 hours. It may take longer if your piano is not is good working condition.
It is very important that you have a qualified professional complete your piano tuning. It is a process that requires skill and expertise in the area. There are no licensing requirements for piano tuning, so be sure the person you use has experience and references for you look into. It can be tempting to let someone who is handy with tools talk you into letting them tinker with your piano. However, more often than not serious damage to your piano will occur. Piano tuning requires the right tools and the right amount of pressure to prevent any damage to the strings.
The Piano Technicians Guild has registered members throughout the United States and Canada. Members of this organization have completed a series of tested designed by to test their knowledge of piano tuning techniques. A complete listing of all members can before on their website.
The site also provides valuable information for those interested in pursuing piano tuning, including a brochure and further links.
