Frequently Asked Questions: Q: Are you a member of the Piano Technician's Guild (PTG)? Yes. I'm a Registered Piano Technician(RPT) of the Piano Technician's Guild and the current President of the Vermont Chapter. For more information about the PTG please visit www.ptg.org
Q: How does the Climate affect my piano?The piano is made of mostly organic materials (wood and cloth) that are affected by moisture content in the air. The climate in the Northeastern United States is known for having dry winters that are contrasted by very humid summers. The drastic fluctuation in humidity can be detrimental to a piano that is more exposed to the natural environment. Common problems include tuning fluctuation and “sticking keys”. More serious damage that can occur may include issues such as glue joint failures, cracked bridges, cracked soundboards, and loose tuning pins.
Q: Where in my home is the best place to put my piano? On an inside wall AWAY from windows, doors, heaters, drafts, and out of direct sunlight.
Q: What can I do to help my tuning to last longer? Keep the piano in a consistant climate, with as little air movement as possible. That is the best thing you can do. Humidify in the winter, and de-humidify in the summer if you have to. Investing in a climate control system for your piano helps tremendously! Generally, the more consistant you are with a tuning schedule, the happier your piano (and your ears) will be!
Q: How often should I have my piano tuned? The majority of my customers have there pianos tuned seasonally (every 6 months). Others, only tune annually. Many Music Teachers and other professionals prefer 3 or more tunings per year. I recommend tuning intervals based on the use of the piano, climate stability, and piano age.
Q: Do you install Dampp-chaser systems? Yes! For more information please contact me and visit www.dampp-chaser.com
Q: Do you fix old player piano mechanisms? No. I don't tune many old player pianos either, unless the mechanism has been fully restored, or has been removed. Players are simply not my specialty.
Q: What are your prices? Please see my price/policy page for current rates. I will also be happy to discuss pricing with you via phone or email.
Q: How long does it take you to tune a piano? Depending on the situation, a standard tuning takes me between 1hr to-1hr &15 min. A pitch-raise takes anywhere from 1hr and 15 min. to 2 hrs.
Q: What is Aural Tuning? Aural tuning means tuning by ear. I tune to equal temperament. Most pianos should be pitched at A=440, and I aim to achieve this with all of my tunings. However sometimes due to seasonal change, age of the piano or neglect, it may not be the best thing for your piano. I will always discuss this with the owner before proceeding.
Q: I have not had my piano tuned in several years. Will it need more than one tuning? In most cases, yes. If the piano is significantly under pitch, it will need a pitch-raise and a follow up tuning to properly stablize the tension on the instrument.
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