Tuning your Piano
Your piano should always be tuned to standard pitch, A-440 CPS, and should be tuned at least three times during the first year after purchase. Some tuning instability should be anticipated during the first year because of the elasticity of the piano wire, combined with the piano’s normal adjustment to the humidity changes in your home. If a piano is allowed to stand for long periods of time without service, it will go further and further out of tune. More time and expense will be required to achieve an accurate tuning. Changes in pitch occur in all makes and models of pianos.
These changes are caused primarily by the expansion and contraction of the soundboard. Dimensional changes occur when the moisture content of the wood increases during periods of high humidity, and decreases when the air is dry. Movement of the soundboard causes the bridges and strings to move, which increases or decreases the tension of the strings. This causes the pitch of each note to change. The amount of change varies in different parts of the scale. The low notes change only slightly, while notes in the middle sections vary the most.
A Little Encouragement
Pianos should be well maintained regardless of the age or skill of the piano player. A piano that is out of tune, has an unpleasant tone, or an unresponsive touch can discourage even novice musicians. One of the best ways to reinforce interest in playing the piano is to maintain its overall performance in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications.