24 January 2023 What Piano Maintenance is Necessary After You Buy

What Piano Maintenance is Necessary After You Buy

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Very few things are “buy it and forget it.” Instead, if you expect longevity and years of enjoyment, you’ll have to perform maintenance to keep it running well.

Pianos are no different. 

Piano maintenance is an important aspect of owning a piano. Grand and upright pianos both need regular maintenance to keep your instrument in good condition and ensure that it produces the best sound. 

What does that involve?

Tuning

Regular tuning is necessary to keep your piano in good pitch. How often depends on the piano’s age, usage, and environmental conditions. This is a process you’ll often find talked about online. There are lots of DIY manuals and videos, but keep in mind that a good piano tuner has years of practical experience. It’s something you feel as much as it is a learning process. 

Cleaning

Piano keys can get dirty and sticky over time, affecting the feel and response of the instrument. Regular cleaning with a soft, damp cloth is necessary to keep the keys clean. Additionally, the soundboard, strings, and other parts of the piano should be cleaned periodically. This is a careful process – you don’t want moisture to come in contact with any of the delicate parts. Harmful chemicals can also ruin the finish as well as hinder playability. Ask one of our sales associates for more details on the perfect cleaning methods. 

Humidity control

Pianos are sensitive to changes in humidity, which can affect their sound and stability. Maintaining a consistent humidity level is essential to prevent damage. Pay attention to room conditions, and consider using a humidifier in dry weather and a dehumidifier in humid weather to control the environment, if necessary.

Regulation

Regulation refers to adjusting the piano’s action, hammers, pedals, and other mechanical components. This should be done by a professional piano technician at least once every five years, or more frequently if necessary. Regulation ensures that the piano plays smoothly and produces the best sound. You can talk with the professional who tunes your piano for more information. 

Repairs

Like any functional asset you own, it will occasionally need repair due to normal wear and tear, or accidental damage. Repairs can include fixing broken strings, repairing action components, or fixing cracks in the soundboard. It’s critical to address repairs promptly to prevent further damage.

Polishing

Piano finishes can become dull over time. Polishing the piano’s finish helps to maintain its beauty and shine. Yet beware of chemical cleaners. Many of them can dull the finish. You can chat with one of our associates about the best way to keep your piano shining year after year. 

Ready to make your dreams come true by owning a piano this year? Proper piano maintenance is crucial to ensure that your piano stays in good condition and produces the best sound possible. 

Taking care of your instrument ensures that it lasts and provides you with many years of enjoyment.

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28 December 2022 Why You Should Keep Your Piano Away From Outside Walls

Why You Should Keep Your Piano Away From Outside Walls

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Pianos are delicate and sensitive instruments, and as such, they require a certain level of care and attention in order to maintain their beauty and functionality. One important aspect of piano care is ensuring that the instrument is not placed near outside walls. Here are a few reasons why you should keep your piano away from outside walls:

Temperature and humidity fluctuations: Pianos are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Placing them near outside walls can expose them to these fluctuations. This can cause the wood in the piano to expand and contract, leading to warping and other damage. In addition, extreme temperature changes can damage the piano’s strings, causing it to go out of tune.

Risk of damage: Outside walls are more susceptible to damage from things like water leaks, pests, and other external factors. If a piano is placed near an outside wall, it is at an increased risk of being damaged by these things. In addition, if the exterior wall is not properly insulated, the piano may be exposed to drafts, which can also cause damage.

Lack of sound quality: Pianos are designed to produce beautiful, rich, and vibrant sounds. However, an outside wall may dampen or distort the sound. This can negatively impact the quality of the music being played, and may even make it difficult for the pianist to hear themselves.

Take a look at your room; where have you placed your piano? It is important to keep your piano away from outside walls in order to protect it from temperature and humidity fluctuations, damage, and poor sound quality. By taking the time to carefully consider the placement of your piano, you can ensure that it will continue to provide you with beautiful music for years to come.

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14 December 2022 How Much Does a Piano Weigh?

How Much Does a Piano Weigh?

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You only have to look at a piano to understand its weight. It combines thick hardwood, heavy cast iron plates, and more than 10,000 components to create a one-of-a-kind instrument. 

If you compare it to all other instruments, no other comes close to its sheer size and volume. You might be able to pack away a trumpet or saxophone and carry it with you, but you’ll never be able to walk away with an acoustic piano. 

Of course, how much a piano weighs depends on its size and shape.   

Vertical pianos

  • Uprights – 480-600 pounds
  • Studio – 400-500 pounds
  • Console – 350-450 pounds
  • Spinet – 200-300 pounds

Grand pianos

  • Baby – 500-1,100 pounds
  • Petite – 400-500 pounds
  • Medium – 500-600 pounds
  • Parlor – 600-700 pounds
  • Ballroom – 900-1,000 pounds
  • Concert – 700-1,200 pounds

Digital pianos

  • Digital keyboards – 25-60 pounds
  • Standalones – 100-300 pounds
  • Digital grand – 150-350 pounds

It’s important to understand that digital pianos play differently from uprights and grands. They don’t utilize strings and soundboards; instead, they use recording sensors to create a similar sound. 

No matter what piano you’re considering, it’s important to use appropriate equipment when moving it. That includes proper piano straps, padding, and other tools to move it safely and securely. It’s not just the weight that makes moving difficult; it’s also the weight distribution. While most of the weight is consolidated into the soundboard and inner workings of the piano, you also have delicate features such as the legs. One wrong move can crack or break off the legs, and cause extensive damage to the piano. 

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10 December 2022 What’s The Difference Between Piano Tuning and Piano Repair?

What’s The Difference Between Piano Tuning and Piano Repair?

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We get a lot of questions from people looking to invest in a new piano. One of the most common is: What’s the difference between piano tuning and repair? 

Just the other day, we spoke with a woman in the market for a new piano. Through a friend of a friend, she’d found someone willing to sell her their old piano. They assured her it was in good condition, though it might need tuning. Should she consider it? 

It depends. 

There are a lot of pieces to this statement, and we carefully walked her through each item she should consider. 

What condition is this piano in?

If the owner is already stating the piano needs tuning, they’re admitting it hasn’t been tuned in a while. How long has it been since it was properly maintained? Months? Years? For a piano to remain in good working condition, it needs annual tuning to maintain its voice. The longer it goes without, the greater the chance it won’t be tunable. If that happens, it will be extensive repair work to bring it back to playable condition. 

How has the piano been stored? 

Where was it stored if it hasn’t been played in a while? Did it reside inside the home? Was it moved to the basement or the garage? Pianos are sensitive instruments that can’t handle fluctuations in temperature or humidity. 

How old is the piano?

Did this friend purchase a new piano just a few years ago? Is it a hand-me-down that’s several decades old? The older a piano is, the more age plays a part in how repairable it will be. You should also consider previous owners, and how well it was cared for along its journey. 

Is it worth repairing?

We often hear people say: “I got it for a great price.” Only after the fee is paid and it’s inside their homes do they realize how much money it will take to repair the piano back to working condition. That good deal is no longer a good deal. 

How to protect yourself

If you aren’t sure what to look for in a piano, we suggest you bring a qualified piano technician with you before you finalize your decision. They can help you determine the current condition of the piano and what it will take to get it into good working condition. 

It’s the best way to help you bring a high quality piano into your home. One you’ll love to play for years to come. 

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21 November 2022 Pianos Are Not a One Size Fits All Instrument

Pianos Are Not a One Size Fits All Instrument

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If you’re thinking of buying a piano for yourself, chances are you’ve learned a lot about it online. You’ll find a ton of information to help you consider what piano to buy, and how to keep up with your practice. 

Yet one thing you might have yet to think much about yet are the differences in pianos. If you visit a big box store, you might only have one to choose from. Yet a piano is not a one-size-fits-all instrument. 

Instead, it takes careful planning and consideration to select the right piano to suit your needs. Things you should consider are:

Size

Need something portable? Maybe a digital piano is what you need. Want something grand to be the center of attention? A grand piano may better suit your needs. Pianos come in a variety of sizes to give you what you need most. Yet in all categories, you’ll find all levels of quality. 

Start by assessing your needs. Where will you play your piano regularly? 

Then pay attention to quality – quality over size. A high-quality vertical will sound better than a lower-quality grand piano every time. It’s not about size, it’s about what suits your lifestyle best.  

Location

Pianos are designed for aesthetics. One that works well in a closed practice room won’t sound the same as one intended for a concert hall. 

The same applies to your home. Take a look around your room. Are there vaulted ceilings? A wall of glass windows? Hardwood or carpet? Lots of artwork on the walls? All of that impacts the way the sound vibrates throughout the room. If you’re investing in a piano to create music you love, it’s important to select one that sounds good to your ear. 

Voice

Pianos are created using different materials. No two pianos are ever the same. 

Over time, a technician will tune your piano, adjusting the way your piano sounds. It depends on the materials used during production, and the way they adjust inside your home. 

Before you buy a piano, sit down and play it. Feel the keys beneath your fingers, and hear the sound of the notes. Working with just a handful of pianos will give you a better idea of how different they sound. You’ll notice you gravitate towards one or another. Go with your instinct. 

It’s the best way to find a piano you truly love, one you’ll continue to play as you grow in talent. 

And that’s what truly matters the most. 

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7 November 2022 The Perfect Spot For Your New Piano

The Perfect Spot For Your New Piano

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You’re in the market for a new piano. You’re excited to bring music into your home. 

But where is the perfect spot for your new piano? There are many factors that can affect your choice. 

Count your steps

A piano isn’t something you can move into place yourself. If you try and move it with a buddy, you’ll find just how bulky and heavy they are. You can risk damaging the piano, and injuring yourself. 

Hiring a piano mover is your best choice to get the job done the right way the first time. Be aware that expenses increase with more difficulty. If they have to navigate staircases, maneuver around walls and obstacles, it takes more time and dedication. The closer you can get to the front door, the better. 

Avoid humidity, moisture, and sunlight

Most people place their new pianos on display. You want it in a room where it will be noticed and get played. However, sunlight isn’t good for a piano. It can dry out the wood, causing it to crack. 

A dark, damp basement isn’t a good choice either. If mold and mildew can creep up, it will impact playability. Moisture can warp wood and cause wire and metal to rust. 

While pianos may have a large presence, they are delicate by nature. They do best in a room with very little change, preferring a temperature around 70 to 72 degrees. 

Acoustics

A piano will change tone based on the quality of the room. High vaulted ceilings will amplify the sound, whereas low ceilings with drapery and wall decor will muffle the tonal quality. 

When you’re finalizing your decision on what piano to buy, ask about sound qualities for where you’re considering placing it. Pianos will sound differently in your home than on the showroom floor. Small changes can have a huge impact. 

If you have a spot for your piano, play around with the decor. Add an area rug. Or remove it and let it rest on the hardwood floor. Test out the sound and come up with an ambiance that works perfectly to amplify the sound. 

Where’s the perfect spot for your new piano?

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4 November 2022 4 Ways To Make Your Piano Last For 100 Years

4 Ways To Make Your Piano Last For 100 Years

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Many people put a piano on display, proud of their family heirloom. It sat in their parent’s home, their grandparents owned it too. It can be traced back further than that, even back to their great-grandparents. 

Yes, if you invest in a quality piano, it can last for 100 years. Not every piano is up for the job; here’s what it takes. 

Pay attention to brand

Brand matters for longevity. If you want a piano to be around to hand down to the next generation, start by looking at pianos built for a lifetime of play. A reputable dealer will be able to point you toward pianos that stand the test of time. They are the very same manufacturers that built pianos during your grandparents’ time. They know how to produce high-quality instruments, and they stand behind their work. 

Regular tuning

Tuning is one of the most important maintenance items to keep your piano healthy. The Piano Technicians Guild recommends that a piano be tuned four times during the first year, then twice a year beyond that. Time it with seasons change to ensure heat and moisture don’t leave their impact. This allows a professional to find minor problems that could quickly escalate into bigger issues. 

Care and maintenance

Location is everything. Ensure the right level of humidity, and low fluctuations in temperature. Keep a piano away from drafts, and avoid streaming sunlight. Don’t put drinks on the edge or lid; water is one of the most damaging items. Carefully dust the keys, and keep things away that can block function. 

Restore when it’s time

Pianos have a lifespan of 30 to 50 years, no matter what brand it is or how well it’s cared for. Eventually, certain things may need repair. New pins. Update strings. Replace the soundboard. 

A reputable piano restorer will keep it as close to original as possible. They will upgrade where necessary, with the end goal of quality. 

If you want to make your piano last for generations, start out by buying a piano built for the task. 

We can help. Just ask. 

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24 September 2022 Is Upgrading Your Piano a Good Investment?

Is Upgrading Your Piano a Good Investment?

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Is a piano a good investment? It depends on your purpose. 

When most people buy a starter piano, it’s to move into a hobby they’ve been considering for a while. They enjoy music, and the thought of creating it is exciting. They are ready for all of the rewards that come with playing the piano. 

Yet upgrading brings something else to the table. You’ve played the piano; you understand what it brings to your life. Now you’re ready to upgrade and have a higher quality sound. 

A new learner requires stability of the notes to hear what you’re playing while you practice. With a higher quality instrument, it takes the sound to the next level. You can hear the difference. 

Of course, piano brands have a lot to do with it. Certain brands hold their value better than others. What matters the most is a high-quality soundboard. Choose a soundboard made from solid wood rather than one created from composite materials. The soundboard is the heart of the piano, it creates the tone and voice of the sound. High-quality materials will ensure a high-quality sound. 

In most cases, you’ll also find pianos that maintain their value and become a good investment using more timeless finishes, like polished ebony. It’s classic and endearing, and has become synonymous with a high-quality instrument. 

Once you’ve upgraded, you’ll have to provide regular care to ensure the value remains high. That includes things like:

Regular tunings – most piano brands suggest tuning the instrument on a yearly basis. But that changes depending on your situation. New pianos need several adjustments during the first year, as the strings adjust to their positioning. If you move the piano, tuning can help ensure it stays in good playing condition. Stick with a regular tuning professional, and they can recommend a schedule that works well for your situation. 

Proper conditions – pianos can be very finicky instruments if the environment is constantly changing. Move it away from windows or doors where it might be in the line of drafts. Keep it away from vents and registers where it will receive a constant stream of conditioned air. Avoid direct sunlight as UV rays will impact the finish. Avoid too much humidity, as it can lead to warping. Avoid dry air, as it can cause the wood to crack. 

General care – be cautious of what you clean your piano with regularly. Dust it to avoid buildup along the keyboard. Keep the lid closed then it’s not in use. Constant pounding of the keys can cause them to stick; be careful to clean them with a mild solution of soap and water, and never let moisture saturate between the keys. 

Is a piano a good investment? Should you consider upgrading to one that currently suits your needs? Yes! If you enjoy playing and are ready for a better sounding instrument, it will help you become a better player. 

Music is something you can carry with you for life. Upgrade to a higher quality piano today, and enjoy making music for life. 

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14 September 2022 Do I Need a Piano If My Child Is Starting Lessons?

Do I Need a Piano If My Child Is Starting Lessons?

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Children often have many desires, running from activity to activity as they try to find what they enjoy. As a parent, that can be difficult on the budget, trying to keep up with the costs required to enter every activity. Should you rent? Should you buy? Should you wait until your child shows real interest? 

What’s a parent to do? 

Is a piano necessary?

Like all activities your child will start, they need to have the basic equipment at hand before they sign up for lessons. And to play the piano, you’ll need to bring a piano into your home. 

This isn’t the time to pick up a small keyboard at your local big box store. It may look like a piano, but it definitely doesn’t play like one. If it’s nothing more than a toy, your child will never pick up the nuances of what it takes to play the piano. 

Pianos have weighted keys to aid in playing. They use 88 keys for an entire span to play every song. Without a proper instrument, they won’t develop the correct technique. 

When should you buy a piano?

Pianos can be expensive. It isn’t easy to put out the money necessary for your child to start lessons and see if they enjoy making music. 

Yet like every activity, it’s a journey, not a destination. Are you prepared to help your child develop a love of music? If so, you’ll need to get them proper tools to help them learn. 

You wouldn’t expect a child to learn soccer without the proper shoes or a flat ball. You wouldn’t expect them to fall in love with cooking without investing in pots and pans. Every hobby, every activity, has its own tools of the trade. It’s required to learn properly and fall in love with the activity. 

What’s a parent’s best plan?

Luckily, there are many ways you can get the best tools without breaking the bank. 

You may be tempted to look online, and give the “free” piano on Craigslist a try. That can be an expensive endeavor. With nothing to compare it to, you may wind up with a piano that barely plays, and is way out of tune. That’s like playing soccer with a flat ball. 

By trusting a piano dealer, you’ll be able to compare used pianos with new ones, and hear the difference between price points. You’ll learn what makes a quality instrument, and discover the best instrument for your budget. 

Starter pianos are great places to start – they give your kids a great chance at falling in love with music, while keeping the price low to fit within your budget. 

Have more questions? Stop by today. When you need a piano, we’ll help you find the right selection to suit your needs. 

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28 August 2022 How Often Should Piano Hammers Be Replaced

How Often Should Piano Hammers Be Replaced

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A piano hammer is the part of the action that strikes the strings when a key is pressed. Hammers are responsible for producing sound as you push down on each key. 

They are manufactured with a thick, stiff felt stretched around wooden molding using tension. This tension creates a “bounce” factor that causes the hammer to “bounce” off the string after it strikes it, creating a specific vibration or tone. 

As one of the most moveable action items in a piano, it should be no surprise to learn how durable this mechanism is. Over time, the piano’s strings tamp down on the felt, breaking down the fibers with each repeated strike. This impacts the piano’s sound. When you press a key without a clean blow, it strikes without intensity, generating a harsh sound that isn’t pleasing to the ear. 

Once you notice this, it’s time for the piano hammer to be replaced. 

Is this something you’ll have to do often? It depends. A concert piano that is used regularly for performances will undergo much more maintenance and care than a piano used periodically in a home environment. 

Playing is one factor, but it isn’t the only one. Location matters – is the piano in harsh conditions with direct sunlight, changing temperatures, and lots of humidity? That can wear down the felt quickly too. 

There isn’t a specific lifespan for when you’ll replace piano hammers. Instead, it’s important to watch for signs of change, guiding you to make repairs long before they wear down and need total replacement. 

Piano hammers have a characteristic egg shape. As they connect with the strings and begin to harden into grooves, a professional is able to reshape the hammers back to their original condition. Most piano hammers can be reshaped up to three times before the shape and hardness require repair. This restoration process involves using fine sandpaper to return it to the required shape. 

How do you know when it’s time? 

The first step is with an audible clue. When hammers are worn down, the piano will create a harsh and unpleasant sound. The tone will be different from what you’re accustomed to. 

The second is by looking at the hammers. If the grooves in the felt are half the diameter of the strings themselves, then the hammers require reshaping at a minimum. As the tracks move closer to the same width as the strings, then the hammers will require replacement. 

Do all pianos need to have hammers replaced? Yes, eventually. This is where the action happens, where sound is created, and where the most stress is created. 

Regular maintenance will ensure its quality to keep your piano in good working condition. That includes replacement of items like the piano hammers from time to time. It’ll keep your piano playable.

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