Piano Tuning

Piano Tuning

At Ken Coleman's Piano Service, we understand there are specific components of a good piano tuning. These include tuning stability, overall pitch, interval stretch, and unison accuracy. All of these factors contribute to the final quality of a piano tuning. When a piano is fully tuned up to standard pitch (A440), there are approximately 40,000 pounds of tension on the strings. As the piano sits, this pressure works to cause the strings to slacken slowly, and the piano gradually goes flat.

Your instrument will become so flat over time that it will need what's called a "pitch raise." Simply put, this is a process where the tuner pre-stretches the strings before he tunes the piano. This tuning won't be as stable as subsequent tunings since the string tension has been drastically increased. That's why a second tuning needs to follow fairly soon after a pitch raise. To help with all of your piano tuning needs, Ken offers a free phone consultations for new or used piano purchases. He also offers $10 off your first tuning service. To speak with Ken or to schedule an appointment, call today at 215-663-2393.

It went well. Ken was on time and completed the work in a very professional manner. He also an excellent pianist, playing a few nice test tunes once the tuning is complete.

What Makes a Good Tuning?

Stability

The single most important characteristic of a quality piano tuning is stability. Ken uses professional techniques to "set" the tuning pin to ensure it will stay where it's put and that the string has balanced throughout its entire length.

Overall Pitch

A piano can fluctuate over time and is usually caused by changes in humidity. Pianos are designed to sound best at a standardized pitch of A440. Pianos that are tuned at regular intervals won't need a pitch correction at every tuning.

Interval Stretch

This is the distance between musical intervals such as an octave, a major third, a perfect fifth, a minor sixth, and so forth. Pianos sound more musical and pleasing when their intervals are well in tune.

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