HOW OFTEN SHOULD MY PIANO BE TUNED?

Most piano manufacturers recommend pianos be tuned twice each year, once for each major climate change. However most technicians agree that once a year, at the same time every years is adequate.
 

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACEMENT FOR THE PIANO IN MY HOME?

Most newer homes have exceptional insulation so pianos can be placed on an  outside wall providing you keep it about 3-4 inches from the wall.

Pianos should not be placed near frequently opened doors or near excessive sources of heat or humidity. Try to avoid heat registers blowing directly on the piano.

WHAT IS THE BEST CARE FOR MY PIANO?

Moisture:   In the prairies our greatest enemy is dryness. Because your piano is made primarily of wood, this is a problem. The excessive dry climate can cause the wood to shrink which results in damage which can be quite costly.

If you cannot maintain a consistent humidity level in your house, you may want to consider having a humidity system installed in the piano. Please contact us  for information and a free brochure.

Cleaning:   For cleaning, if your piano has a high gloss finish, simply use a damp soft cloth. If it has a wood finish, use an oil soap or lemon oil. Try to avoid the use of commercial aerosol furniture polishes.

Never clean the inside of the piano yourself as there is the risk of breaking something. Allow your technician to do this for you.
 

Age:   Understand that as your piano ages, it may require some more extensive repairs and upgrading to ensure that it performs to its full ability. If you are having any difficulty making your piano respond to your skill level, talk to your technician.

Consistent, yearly tunings are the best way to ensure your piano is in its best sounding and playing condition. Many problems can be averted with regular service.

SHOULD I KEEP WATER IN THE BOTTOM OF MY PIANO?

Although this was done years ago, it has proved to be somewhat inadequate. First of all, the water in a jar cannot evaporate fast enough to do any good. In addition to this, cold water evaporation lacks the necessary level of convection which is needed to move the moisture throughout the piano evenly.

Finally, 99% of people forget to keep the jar full. It is far worse to give your piano moisture and then let it run dry. If this is a concern for you, please contact us for free information on piano humidity systems.

WHAT IS THE BEST NEW PIANO TO BUY?

Although there are many good new pianos available, it is very important that you consider several factors. Who will be playing the piano? How much will it be played? Is it for personal enjoyment, professional endeavours, or lessons? Do not assume that because a piano has a certain name, that it is synonymous with quality. Even the best  manufacturers have their poorer models. A trained piano technician works on all makes and models of pianos and is not biased toward any single brand. He or she can advise you as to which pianos are and are not recommended.

 

WHAT DO I LOOK FOR IN A USED PIANO?

This is a very difficult question to answer in a few words. Since a piano is made of up to 12,000 parts, there are many things that can go wrong.

Consider these factors when purchasing a used piano:

1. Does the piano sound bad? If so, there is a reason for it.
2. Does the piano appear to have been neglected? (poor outside quality)
3. Do all the notes play?
4. When was the last time the piano was serviced? If it hasn't been
tuned in many years, you may want to proceed with caution.

Only a trained professional can adequately assess the condition of a piano so consult your nearest technician.

HOW OLD IS MY PIANO?

We are able to search the age of most pianos if the following information is provided:

1. The Full Name of the Piano.
2. Where it was built?
3. The serial number (usually located on the inside at the top).

We would be happy to respond to your email inquiry.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO MOVE A PIANO?

Again, this is difficult to answer in brief, but here are some hints.
All pianos are heavy. PROTECT YOURSELF! Be sure to have adequate help and wear protective gear (shoes, back belts, etc.)
Always remember that pianos are top heavy and once they begin to lean back, they will fall over. Never assume that the wheels work. They can quickly damage a floor and cause accidents.

If you are moving a piano in the winter, wrap it in several quilts to
protect it from the elements. If it is a lengthy move, leave the quilts on the piano for 12-24 hours after it arrives in its new location. This will cause the piano to warm up slowly minimizing the risk of damage. Always make sure the piano is well secured and cannot shift in any moving vehicle.

A professional can move your piano with specialized equipment. Please refer to the listings on our <Links> page or call a local mover to inquire.

An attractive piano can add elegance and atmosphere to any room.