Frequently Asked Questions
What is A440? A440 means that the 49th key on the piano (A) is tuned to 440hz. This means that the string
will complete 440 vibrations per second. This is the international pitch standard and pianos should be tuned to
this standard. Some pianos used for orchestral performance tune their pianos to A442 but this is not the norm.
Does my piano need to be tuned if I don't play it? Yes. A piano will still go out of tune due to climate
change and string stretching. The longer the delay in tuning, the more the piano will become unstable.
What is an RPT? RPT means Registered Piano Technician with the Piano Technicians Guild. The Guild is an
organization of technicians whose goal is quality and integrity. Each registered member has undergone a
series of tests to ensure competency in various aspects of piano service. Continuing education is also
provided through seminars and conventions.
What brand piano should I buy? There is not a "best brand" of pianos. There are a number of good
brands, each with good, better, and best models. The best way to find the piano right for you is to consult with
a qualified technician. Your technician can help you find a quality instrument within your budget constraints. A
piano purchase is a very personal decision, and a very big investment. This will ensure that you find a piano
that you love, and one that will last.
Can any technician tune my player piano? Yes, tuning a player piano is the same procedure as a regular
piano. However, player pianos need to be calibrated regularly. There are adjustments for the keys and pedals
that must be done as the piano ages and is played. These include: how hard the hammer hits the string, how
long the key stays down, and how much force is needed to activate the pedal solenoid. Your technician should
be familiar with these and other calibration procedures to ensure proper performance of your piano.
How do I clean my piano? There are various polishes on the market designed to clean the exterior. Care
should be taken to ensure the polish is the correct one for your piano finish. Some are lacquer and some are
polyester. The strings should never be touched with any type of polish. We offer a full interior cleaning service
that includes under the strings. Please refer to the services page for more information.
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