Serving the Michigan areas of Traverse
City, Interlochen, Beulah, Benzonia, Frankfurt, Onekema, Elk Rapids, Acme,
Charlevoix, East Jordan, Petoskey,
Harbor Springs, Alanson, Indian River,
Mackinaw Island, Boyne City, Cadillac, Ludington, Care For Your Piano
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Tim Dietlin, Piano Tuner
Recommends Regular Tuning
for all Michigan Pianos. |
Pianos should be tuned a
minimum of twice a year for the sake of the instrument's physical
well-being, and more frequently for that of the player's.
Seasonal changes are one of the greatest influences on tuning
stability; two ideal times of the year to tune a piano in Michigan
are in the springtime when the heat in the home has been turned off,
and alternately in the fall when the heat has been turned on.
Regulation
Regulation, or the
alignment and adjustment of all moving parts, should be done
every few years, depending upon usage and condition of piano.
Location
The piano should be kept
in a suitable location, away from direct sources of heat, cold,
or moisture. Ideal temperatures for pianos are between 18-21° C.
Direct sunlight is a major cause of rapid tuning instability and
can also dry out the wood and glue joints causing mechanical
failure.
Humidity
Humidity levels ranging
from 40% to 60% are best for pianos, but consistency is more
important than the exact level. Room humidifiers in the winter
and air conditioners in the summer are highly recommended.
FAQ
Q: What makes a piano go out of tune?
A: No single factor causes a
piano to go out of tune, but rather it is a combination of
many. Two of the biggest factors are environment and usage.
Pianos are sensitive instruments affected by variations and
fluctuations in both temperature and humidity. How much a
piano is played and with how much force are also major
contributing factors. Condition of the piano, manufacture
and craftsmanship, as well as previous care and maintenance
all play important roles in tuning stability. Tim can keep
you on a regular schedule.
Q: Why should I tune it if no one is
playing it?
A: Pianos have between 200-250
strings under a combined tension of 15-20 tonnes when the
piano is "at pitch". The entire instrument is under varying
stresses. Regular tuning not only benefits the musical "ear"
of the player, but serves to keep the stress in check and
maintain the physical and structural integrity of the
instrument.
Q: What is regulation and why does my
piano need it?
A: Pianos are elaborately
engineered mechanical assemblies subjected to the damages of
friction and general wear and tear just like any other
mechanical device. Regulation, or the alignment and
adjustment of the hundreds of moving parts, should be
performed every few years, depending on usage and condition
of the piano. Regulation allows all 88 keys and 3 pedals to
function properly and equally.
Q: Does it matter where in my home I
put the piano?
A: In a word; yes.
Fluctuations in temperature and humidity greatly effect
tuning and the structure of the piano. You should avoid
placing a piano over, in front of, or beside heating vents,
radiators or fireplaces. The old rule of never placing a
piano against an outside wall is not as much of a concern
today in modern homes that are properly insulated. This
being said, draughty locations, like in front of windows,
doors to the outside, or poorly insulated walls, should be
avoided as well, especially in Upper Michigan.
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To discuss your piano tuning
needs in the Michigan area,
please contact:
Tim Dietlin
Michigan: (231) 264-9562
cell: (231) 883-6127
11317
Sutter Road
Kewadin, Michigan 49648
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Serving the Michigan areas of Traverse
City, Interlochen, Beulah, Benzonia, Frankfurt, Onekema, Elk Rapids, Acme,
Charlevoix, East Jordan, Petoskey,
Harbor Springs, Alanson, Indian River,
Mackinaw Island, Boyne City, Cadillac, Ludington, Care For Your Piano