|
|
|
|
Even the most reputed piano players struggle to tune the piano after piano repair properly. Hence, piano tuning is very hectic and can only be accurately served by experts. There can be various causes leading to piano repairing. On completion of repair work, there will be a definite need for piano tuning. It is said that a piano can only produce the desired sound only if properly tuned at least twice a year. Generally, a piano tuner or piano technician has the required skills, knowledge about the instrument and years of experience. These people look to provide an accurate tune which is also long-lasting.
Tuning a Piano (8-Step Guide)
Set-Up
Before starting the procedure, it is very important to create a perfect environment. The room should be tranquil, and you need to switch off the electrical appliances should be switched off. Even the slightest noise can imbalance the tuning. Any dust should be carefully removed without harming the strings. In case of any damages, it should be marked properly. The operational area should have enough illumination. Specific lights should be fixed if required.
Prep Middle C
The next step should be figuring out the number of strings a particular piano has. Most pianos have three strings, with the middle one being C. In the case of old pianos, they might have two strings, and the right one is C. In the case of new and old pianos, the other two strings and the left one should be muted with rubber mutes.
Tuning One String of Middle C
In this step, an experienced piano tuner will turn on their electric tuners and press the middle C4 Key loudly. Their experienced ears and the tuner collectively determine the note. Pianos generally go out of tune in case of flat notes. It happens due to the weakening of the string tensions. Experts can ensure to bring them back to their original state.
Setting the Pin
There are several approaches that experts widely use across the world to set the right tune for pianos. The process of setting the pin is common for everyone. This process helps hold the correct tension of strings for a longer time. Experts also ensure to set the pin slightly higher than the accurate pitch; lowering them slightly helps reach the desired goal.
Tunning of All the Other Notes
Once the C string is properly tuned, the need comes to tune all the other middle notes in the octave. The procedure stays pretty same but needs detailed and expert attention. All the notes are individually tuned right from C4 to C5. While tuning, it is essential to continuously play a particular note to hear and figure out the exact one.
Tuning the First Unison String
While the middle strings from each note are properly tuned, now the time has come to tune the unisons. These are nothing but the string which lies towards the outer side. The process is ultimately the same, and again the need to mute the centre strings come. One string at a time should be worked upon, keeping other/s mute. Experienced ears of professionals come into play at this stage. People need to trust their ears rather than electric tuners.
Tunning of Other Unisons
By the end of this process, one should have a properly tuned, entire middle octave at their respective pianos. This step is quite not necessary for pianos, which have only two strings. In the case of three strings, it is again the same tuning process, just like the first unison. One should remember to mute the other two strings for effective and long-term results.
Tuning Each Octave to the Temperament
Temperament notes are basically the guidelines consisting of pure octaves. Each note should be compared with the temperament to produce elegant music. One particular string should be compared at a time, muting all the other strings. Professionals can offer the best solutions as their ears are used to listening to the same notes every day. There are also several other techniques which a professional follows for perfect execution.
The Tools Required
Tuning Lever
This is a very important and essential tool popularly found with most professional piano technicians. This is also popularly called a tunning knob or hammer. It ensures the safe conduction of the tunning.
Electronic Chromatic Tuner
This is basically a tiny and very handy device. It detects the note being played and how far it is from the supposed tune. Professional tuners are always equipped with this particular tool.
Mutes
Muting is a very important step in setting the right tune for the Piano. These tools are used to mute all the strings except the one that is working.
Screwdriver
Like any other operation, screwdrivers are essential to tune a piano. It is mainly used to set the right tension of the strings. Apart from tension, it can also be used to remove the other fittings and install them back seamlessly.
Light
As has already been discussed, proper lighting is very important to work with minute strings. In case the room light fails to provide sufficient light, need for fixing specific light is required.
Dust Cloth
It is a basic material that is used to clean the strings. Prior cleaning before execution makes the tuning work pretty easy. The material of the dust cloth should be soft. Rough fabrics might cause damage to pianos.
|
|
