Questions
Piano Repair FAQ
Straight answers about tuning intervals, pricing, restoration and Colorado's climate.
Answers to the questions we hear most
How often should my piano be tuned?
Twice a year suits most homes on the Front Range. New pianos need three to four tunings in the first year while the strings settle, and heavily used studio instruments benefit from quarterly service.
What is a pitch raise and why might I need one?
When a piano falls well below A440, tuning it in one pass will not hold because raising tension on some strings pulls others out again. A pitch raise is a fast rough pass that brings the whole instrument close to pitch, immediately followed by a fine tuning.
Can you fix a piano that has not been played in twenty years?
Usually yes. Neglect is mostly a mechanical problem: dried felt, corroded strings, seized center pins. We inspect, report on condition, and tell you honestly whether the instrument justifies the investment.
Do you work on digital pianos?
We service acoustic pianos and player systems. For digital instruments we can recommend a specialist.
How long does a tuning appointment take?
About ninety minutes for a piano near pitch. Add time for a pitch raise, minor repairs or voicing.
Should I move my piano before you tune it?
No. Tune after the move, and ideally give the piano one to two weeks to acclimate to the new room first.
Is it worth restoring an old family piano?
It depends on the maker and the structural condition, not the age. We provide a written condition report so the decision is based on the pinblock, soundboard and action rather than sentiment alone — though sentiment is a perfectly valid reason too.
Do you offer emergency or rush service?
We reserve capacity each week for pre-recital and pre-event repairs. Call and describe the problem; we will tell you immediately whether we can help in time.
What payment methods do you accept?
Card, check and electronic transfer. Institutions can be invoiced on standard net terms.
Do you provide written estimates?
Yes, for every repair, regulation and restoration project before any work begins.
Will tuning fix a note that does not sound?
No. A silent note is a mechanical fault — a broken string, hammer, shank or damper — and needs repair, which we can often complete during the same visit.
How do I keep my piano stable through a Colorado winter?
Hold the room near 40 to 45 percent relative humidity, keep the piano away from vents and exterior walls, and consider an in-piano climate system.