Tuning
Piano tuning is the adjusting of the musical pitch of the notes on the piano, by adjusting the tension of the piano’s strings, in order to achieve its optimal sound.
Most manufacturers recommend servicing at least two to four times a year to keep the piano sounding good and working properly. This is especially important the first few years of a piano’s life and when environmental conditions change.
A standard tuning takes roughly two hours and is conducted on-site. A piano which has gone a long time without tuning may require more time if a pitch adjustment is necessary.
Basic tunings start at $200 (plus tax) for pianos in Austin. Surrounding areas start at $225.
Voicing
Voicing adjusts the tone of a piano, rather than the pitch. If a piano sounds harsh, inconsistent, or lacks power, voicing procedures can improve the tone, making it more consistent throughout the whole keyboard, and enhance dynamic range.
A piano needs to be in tune before being voiced. Voicing can often be conducted in the same visit as a tuning.
Repair
Even pianos with moderate usage and proper maintenance will occasionally need repairing. Repairs can involve a variety of issues, from a sticking key to a squeaky pedal. Where tuning keeps a piano sounding good, repairs keep a piano functioning properly.
Basic repairs can often be conducted in the same visit as a tuning.
Reconditioning
& Regulation
Pianos which have gone a long time without maintenance other than tuning may need reconditioning. Piano parts are made of wood, felt, and leather which compress over time, changing the way it responds to the touch and eventually requiring maintenance. Reconditioning is the process of putting those parts back in good condition by cleaning, lubricating, aligning, and adjusting for best performance, with parts replacement only where necessary.
Regulation is a procedure of making fine adjustments to the parts so the piano will perform to the best of its ability.
Reconditioning & regulation does not require moving the piano. Following an inspection, the action is removed and brought to the shop for the reconditioning, which is normally completed in a couple of weeks. Final regulation is performed on-site.
Rebuilding
Pianos sometimes require parts replacement rather than reconditioning. Rebuilding projects involve the replacement of some or all of the action parts, which are then aligned and regulated.
Pianos that have seen heavy usage over the course of many years may also require restringing. Restringing, paired with proper tuning, helps to stabilize the pitch and restores a piano’s sound to its optimal state.
Rebuilding is performed in the shop and is usually completed within a few months.
Inspection
Having a piano inspected by a technician is the only way to be sure about its condition. If you are buying or selling a piano, or need information about possible repairs or rebuilding, a thorough examination of the piano will give you real information to help you with making decisions.
Inspections are conducted on-site and can be completed in about an hour.