Piano care & maintenance
Pianos are amongst the most versatile of musical instruments available and one of the most complex and delicate. Looked after correctly a piano will give many years of enjoyment.
Pianos are designed to sound best when regularly tuned to A440 pitch, which will match other instruments. To maintain this, pianos need tuning once or twice a year, depending on use and location.
The hammers of pianos are voiced to compensate for gradual hardening, and other parts also need periodic regulation to accommodate wear and tear.
Caring for your piano
Pianos are finished in a variety of materials to protect the wood; they need only be dusted with a dry, clean cotton cloth to avoid scratching. Keys can be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth, and then wiped with a dry cloth.
Do not attempt to oil any squeaking parts, this needs to be done by a qualified tuner or technician to avoid damage to the instrument.
Do not put vases with water or drinks on top of the piano, spillage of liquids can cause costly damage to the delicate workings.
Moving your piano
Piano moving should be done by trained piano movers using adequate manpower and the correct equipment for any particular piano’s size and weight.
Pianos are heavy yet delicate instruments. Over the years, professional piano movers have developed special techniques for transporting both grands and uprights, which prevent damage to the case and to the piano’s mechanics.
Mark recommends Broughton Pianos for their expert service in piano transportation.