Why Does my Piano need tuning

It must be remembered that a piano is basically a percussion instrument and every time

the hammer hits the strings there is a complex pattern of waveforms and vibration which

is the sound you hear. Pianos are mostly made from wooden components and these are

very prone to movement, expansion and contraction depending on the amount of humidity

and temperature. Tuning pins are not threaded like a conventional wood screw and are

designed with a very fine thread which holds in a wood bushing or wrest plank by friction.

You will often find a piano will sound fine in the treble and bass section but not in the mid

section,this varies from instrument to instrument as designs are often very different

between manufacturers.If the intervals do not sound even across the range of the instrument

then it is time to call your tuner.I recommend that an instrument played every day for about

1 hour or more should be tuned at least every six months. An instrument played less

frequently may be able to last up to 12 months.There is no set rule. If a piano is left without

attention there are additional problems, strings will become frozen, (fixed in there grooves)

and refuse to be moved. This can result in broken strings.Wooden hinges and other moving

parts occasionally need maintenance.(normally carried out with special lubricants or

replacement of felt centres).Wear occurs and means adjustments to some of the working

parts is also necessary.These are normally done at a tuning visit.This is part of the

regulation process,After about 15 years of regular use a piano may need additional

adjustments. Most instruments can be kept going for many generations if properly looked after.