Piano tuning: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What piano tuning is

A piano tuner adjusts string tension on a piano so each note is in pitch, often checking the action and making small repairs during the visit. People book a tuner when a piano has drifted out of tune, after a move, or before a recital or lesson that depends on the piano sounding right.

Signs you need it

  • Some notes sound out of tune with the rest of the piano, especially in the middle range
  • The piano has not been tuned since it was moved or the room changed
  • Keys stick, stay down, or feel uneven when you press them
  • A note buzzes, rattles or rings when you play it
  • You are preparing for a recital, exam or recording on the piano

What the pro does

  • Checks the overall pitch of the piano and marks where the strings have drifted
  • Adjusts the tension on each string using a tuning hammer and checks the unison
  • Tests the action and notes any sticking or uneven keys
  • Tightens or reseats loose parts and checks the pedals for proper movement
  • Advises on the room, humidity and placement of the piano for long-term stability

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • Whether the piano is an upright or a grand, since the work differs
  • The age and condition of the piano and how long since its last tuning
  • Whether a pitch raise is needed after a move or long gap between tunings
  • Small repairs or action work found during the visit
  • Travel distance and whether the piano is in a home, school or venue
  • Whether you want a recurring tuning schedule

What a written quote should spell out

  • Whether the visit is a standard tuning or a pitch raise
  • What the tuner will check, such as the action, pedals and buzzing notes
  • Which repairs are included and which need a separate visit or approval
  • Whether the visit is at your home, a school or a venue
  • Whether the quote covers a follow-up tuning after a set time

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Is this a standard tuning or does the piano need a pitch raise first?
  • Do you tune by ear and with a tuning device, and how do you check the unisons?
  • What repairs might you find, and will you ask before doing any work?
  • Do you have experience with my brand and type of piano?
  • How long should the tuning hold, and how often should I have it done?
  • Where should I keep the piano to protect the tuning?

Red flags

  • Quotes a tuning without asking about the piano's age or last tuning
  • Pushes large repairs or new parts before finishing the tuning
  • Says a single tuning will fix a damaged soundboard or cracked pins
  • Will not explain what was done or what was found on the visit

What you can do yourself

You can keep the piano in a room with steady humidity, away from heat, direct sun and vents, and dust the keys and case with a soft cloth. Do not turn the tuning pins or touch the strings and hammers, since small changes throw off the tuning. Call a tuner when notes drift, when keys stick or buzz, or after the piano is moved.

Licenses and permits

No license is usually required to tune a piano. Check with your state or local licensing agency if you are unsure whether a tuning business needs a registration, and ask the tuner whether they carry any business insurance they can show you.

Piano tuning questions

How often should a piano be tuned?

Ask the tuner how often they recommend for your piano and room. Pianos in rooms with changing humidity or heavy use usually need tuning more often.

Can I tune my piano myself?

Tuning needs special tools and training. Keep the piano steady and clean at home, and call a tuner for the work.

How do I book a piano tuner on infinibell?

Describe your piano, its age and the last time it was tuned. Pick the tuners you want by name. Only the tuners you pick see your request, and it is free for you.

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