Tuning or Pitch Raise?
Understanding Piano Tuning: What You Need to Know About Pitch Raises and Double Tunings
If you’re getting back into music and you’ve noticed your older piano sounds out of tune, you might be hearing terms from your piano tuner like “pitch raise” and “double tuning.” You may wonder if these are just ways to upsell services or if your piano really needs this. Let’s break down what these terms mean and why they might be necessary.
Why Your Piano Might Need More Than a Basic Tuning
If it’s been more than two years since your last piano tuning, or if you’ve just acquired a piano and had it moved, a basic tuning might not be enough. Here’s why:
What is a Pitch Raise?
Think of your piano strings like muscles that need to be reconditioned. After a period of disuse or low tension, such as when the piano hasn’t been tuned for a while, the strings can become relaxed and stretched out. When you tune the piano for the first time in a while, it’s like giving those muscles a workout. Just as you might feel sore after exercise, your piano strings need time to adjust.
The Double Tuning Process
A “double tuning” or “pitch raise” is often necessary when a piano has been out of tune for an extended period. Here’s what happens:
Initial Pitch Raise: This first tuning brings the piano up to near pitch but may not be perfect.
Follow-Up Tuning: After the initial tuning, a second adjustment—usually done within a day or two—fine-tunes the piano to its precise pitch.
This process helps stabilize the piano’s tuning as the strings adjust to their new tension. In some cases, your tuner might recommend spacing these tunings over a few days to allow the piano to acclimate properly.
What is Pitch Raise?
All musical notes vibrate at specific frequencies, measured in Hertz (Hz). For example, the A4 note above middle C is tuned to 440 Hz, often referred to as A440. If your A4 note is not registering at this frequency, it could be sharp (higher than 440 Hz) or flat (lower than 440 Hz). If the discrepancy is significant, the piano might sound out of tune or even like a different note.
Recommended Tuning Schedule
For most pianos, it’s advisable to follow up with a tuning 3-6 months after a pitch raise. After this initial follow-up, scheduling regular tunings once a year can help maintain the piano’s performance and keep the strings in good condition.
Conclusion
Understanding the importance of pitch raises and double tunings can help you ensure your piano sounds its best. If you’re experiencing tuning issues or have recently acquired a piano, consider these services as part of your piano’s maintenance routine. For more information or to schedule a piano tuning, contact [Your Business Name] today!