What does piano tuning do?
Tuning adjusts the pitch of an acoustic piano’s strings so its notes sound in tune. It is different from fixing a sticking key, changing the feel of the keyboard or repairing damaged parts. When booking, explain whether you want routine tuning or help with a particular problem.
If you do not know the last tuning date, say so. Tell the tuner about a recent move, a long period without service or a noticeable change in sound. Ask whether the appointment includes an assessment and whether additional work would need a separate quote.
You can search for piano tuners and confirm their service area directly. The directory includes different specialties; a category does not promise that a provider is available at your location or on your preferred date.
Regulation and voicing: touch and tone
Regulation means adjusting the playing mechanism, often called the action. It concerns how the keys and mechanism respond. Voicing concerns the character and evenness of the tone. These are separate from tuning, although a technician may discuss more than one during a visit.
Describe the experience in your own words: a key feels slow, repeated notes are difficult, or some notes sound much brighter than their neighbours. You do not need to diagnose the cause. Ask the technician what assessment is needed before deciding on the work.
See action regulation specialists or piano voicing specialists. Yamaha’s piano maintenance guide explains the distinction between regulation, tuning and voicing.
When should I ask about repairs?
Tell a technician about keys or pedals that do not work as expected, unusual noises, visible damage or a sudden change in performance. Give the brand, model, piano type and a clear description of when the problem occurs. Photos or a short recording may help them decide what to inspect.
General piano repairers assess faults and individual repairs. Major restoration can involve a much broader project. Ask which parts would be repaired or replaced, where the work would happen and whether transport is included. Cabinet appearance and playing condition are different matters, so make sure the quote addresses your actual concern.
For a larger project, read our restoration and refinishing guide before comparing proposals.
For an electronic fault on a digital or hybrid instrument, look for a digital and hybrid piano technician with experience of that model. Acoustic string tuning is not a remedy for an electronic sound or power fault.
Prepare a useful service enquiry
- Give the piano’s brand, model and type, plus its approximate age if known.
- Describe the problem, when it started and whether it affects particular keys or pedals.
- Mention recent servicing, a move, storage or damage, and share available service records.
- State your general location and any access limits for an in-person appointment.
- Explain your aim: regular home practice, a purchase inspection, a performance or a repair decision.
Keep identifying paperwork and private household details out of public photos. Share only the information needed to arrange the service through your direct enquiry.
Check the scope before agreeing to work
Ask about the visit charge, travel, included work and the process for approving extra repairs. For a larger project, request a written description, expected timescale and total quote, including transport where relevant. Compare the scope as well as the amount.
Planning to sell? Before paying for repairs, ask for a written quote that includes transport and what work is covered. Compare the total with asking prices for similar pianos in your market; advertised prices do not prove what they sell for. Our guide to selling a piano explains how to compare listings and describe known faults.
Ask about experience with your piano type and any claimed training or membership. Confirm those claims with the provider or relevant organisation. A directory advert is not an independent assessment of the instrument or a guarantee of the work.
Agree a future service plan suited to your instrument and use. If you are deciding whether to buy a piano, start with our used piano buying checklist. If transport is involved, share our moving checklist with the person arranging collection.
Find a piano professional