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Most manufacturers recommend tuning your piano at least once or twice a year, depending on factors like humidity changes, usage, and how critical the tuning is for the player. If the piano is used for performances or serious practice, more frequent tuning may be beneficial. Generally I suggest that once a year is sufficient for pianos in a domestic setting with only occasional use. Less often than this and tuning stability will start to be compromised, often requiring multiple tunings to restore concert pitch.

A standard tuning typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. If the piano has gone significantly out of tune, additional time may be needed, especially if a pitch raise (see below) is required.

If a piano has gone far out of tune - more than a 10-15 cents (% of a semitone) flat across the entire range - a pitch raise may be needed. This is a two-step tuning process where the strings are first brought up close to, but above, standard pitch (A440) to stabilize tension before a fine-tuning is performed. A pitch raise can have a material and noticeable positive effect on the outcome of the tuning process.

Yes, but depending on how far the pitch has dropped, it may require multiple tunings or a pitch raise to stabilize it. In some cases, very old pianos with weak strings or tuning pins may not hold a tuning well and require additional work. Occasionally I will recommend tuning a piano to a pitch lower than concert pitch (A440). This reduces stress on the piano frame and the potential for braking older strings, but is not ideal if the piano is played alongside other instruments. This is a decision I will discuss with the customer.

Some of the most common repairs include:

• Sticky or non-working keys (caused by dirt, felt wear, or mechanical issues)
• Broken or aged elements of the action including bridal tapes, various springs and felts, and stiff flanges (pivots) on the hammer, jack and wippen
• Regulation issues (fine-tuning the action for even playability)
• Broken strings (requiring replacement and tuning)
• Worn hammer and/or damper felts (affecting tone and sostenuto)

If your piano has sticking keys, inconsistent touch, buzzing sounds, or muted notes, it may need repair. If it hasn’t been serviced in years, a general check-up can help identify any hidden issues.

Ideally, place your piano away from radiators, direct sunlight, and drafts to avoid excessive humidity or temperature changes, which can cause tuning instability and wood damage.

It’s best to avoid vacuuming or dusting inside your piano without proper knowledge, as delicate components can be damaged. Removing the large panel under the keyboard (generally held on with a clip in the middle or on either side) can give access to the bottom of the piano where you can safely vacuum or dust, but cleaning the action and removing keys from the keybed (where a large amount of dust and debris can accumulate and cause issues) is best left to a trained professional.

Our rates are very competitive! Here are a couple of links for, hopefully, fairly objective and impartial guidance:

https://pianohut.co.uk/how-much-does-it-cost-to-tune-a-piano-in-the-uk/

"In most cases, the cost of tuning a piano here in the UK ranges from £90 to £200. Standard tuning is usually the cheapest, taking about 40 to 60 minutes to complete. If more than one tuning is needed, then the cost may be higher."

https://pianocheck.co.uk/piano-tuning-price-a-guide-to-costs-and-frequency/

"Generally, a standard piano tuning starts at around £65. However, prices can range from £50 to £100 or more, particularly for specialized services like pitch raising or major repairs."

I want to give everyone the opportunity to enjoy a well-maintained piano, regardless of their financial situation. If you would find the cost of regular piano tuning a challenge please feel free to get in touch to discuss a rate that would work for you - no need for proof, just an honest request.