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Services

PIANO TUNING

Piano tuning is the process of adjusting the sound intervals we hear as “in tune.” I tune the A above middle C to 440 Hz.(cycles per second).   This is referred to as “concert pitch.”  I tune to this standard.  If I need to deviate from this standard, I will explain.  I tune by ear, usually with the aid of a computer program designed specifically for pianos.  I learned to tune “aurally” and tuned that way for 17 years.  If you would like me to tune without the computer I can do so but I believe the computer to be an advantageous tool.  I can also offer “historic temperaments” if you so prefer.

PITCH RAISING

When the pitch of the piano deviates from equal temperament by more than 10 cents flat or sharp, the piano requires a pitch raise (or lowering), and the resulting tuning will not be stable.  A deviation of this sort is generally caused by the instrument having been exposed to severe swings in relative humidity or not being tuned often enough.  Regular tuning and a stable environment will help a piano “stay in tune.”  The computer program I use is extremely helpful in achieving the most stable tuning possible.  Piano manufacturers generally recommend four tunings the first year of a pianos life and twice a year thereafter.  (See Brochure entitled “How often should my piano be service” at )

REPAIR

I can repair squeaks, clicks and buzzes.  If one of the 9000 parts of your piano is broken or malfunctioning, I can repair or replace it.  If there is a repair that is outside of my scope of work, I can refer you to a qualified person.

REGULATION

“Regulation is the adjustment of the mechanical aspects of the piano to compensate for the effects of wear, the compacting and settling of cloth, felt and buckskin, as well as dimensional changes in wood and wool parts due to changes in humidity.” (For more information see Technical Bulletin #2 on Regulation at )

VOICING

Voicing is the adjustment of a piano’s tone or quality of sound.  Tone can be changed without affecting the pitch.  A very “bright” piano can be mellowed and vice versa.  Other tonal qualities can be adjusted.  The degree of change possible depends upon the piano’s design and condition.  (Technical Bulletin #4 at )

PIANO CLEANING

Pianos become dusty and dirty under the strings, around pins and in the action cavity.   I can vacuum and clean these areas as well as the case and keys as an additional service.

ADVICE

I can help you find information to help you with the purchase of a new or used piano.  For a fee, I can accompany you to look at a piano and give you a technician’s opinion of  its condition and needs. If you are unavailable, I can look at a piano and report back to you.  If your piano needs moving, or rebuilding I can counsel you and offer referrals to technicians who specialize in these services.

APPRAISALS

I am qualified to give you my opinion of the value of your instrument.  Whether you’re looking for an insurance value, replacement value or resale value, I can obtain the information you need.  This service takes extra time.  I need to do research to get accurate information which I can e-mail, snail mail or FAX to you.

INSTALLATION OF HUMIDITY SYSTEMS

I am a field representative for Dampp Chaser Systems and can install a system on your grand or upright piano that is designed to keep the relative humidity of the air within your piano at the ideal level of 42%. This protects your instrument from wide humidity swings and makes your tunings stable. (Technical Bulletin #3 on Humidity Control at )

RECONDITIONING

Reconditioning is different from rebuilding.  Reconditioning involves cleaning the case and action, making repairs and adjustments.   More involved than just Regulation, but less involved than Rebuilding, the time and price depends on the condition of the instrument.

Key Rebushing 
I rebush (replace the felts) in piano keys for other local technicians.  I use the Spurlock method and can offer faster service than most key rebushing options.