Piano Care

Care your piano needs but doesn't always get

Taking proper care of your piano is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain its exceptional sound quality. However, many piano owners often overlook or neglect certain aspects of maintenance, causing potential harm to their instrument. To simplify the process and help you prioritize the care your piano needs, we have compiled a list of essential practices.

  • Proper cleaning is essential for maintaining your piano. Dust accumulation can absorb moisture, leading to rust on the strings and permanent stains on the piano’s finish.

    When this occurs, your piano not only looks dirty but also suffers long-term, irreversible damage to critical components, making cleaning increasingly difficult.

    Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the surface of your piano regularly. For stubborn areas mild dish detergent and a damp cloth can be used on the keys as well as the case.

    Be cautious while cleaning around the keys, ensuring no liquid enters the keyboard. Dry with a new microfiber cloth.

    CAUTION: Some furniture cleaners can create a film on the polyester or lacquer finish. Use special cleaners and polishes formulated specifically for piano finishes. Cory Care products are designed for pianos and work very well. Ask me about Cory Care products for your piano needs.

  • Piano regulation plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal performance and longevity of your instrument. Meticulous adjustments across the keyboard and internal action parts, improves touch responsiveness and allows musicians to fully express their musicality. Whether it's a grand piano in a concert hall or an upright piano in a household, the art of piano regulation is essential in preserving the instrument's tone quality, precision, and overall musical experience.

    Additionally, repair of worn-out or damaged parts prevent further deterioration and ensure that the piano remains in peak condition.

  • Pianos inherently go out of tune due to changes in humidity and regular use. Schedule regular tuning sessions with a qualified piano technician, ideally twice a year, to maintain accurate pitch. Additionally, consider voicing, a process that optimizes the tonal quality of your instrument. Voicing ensures a consistently balanced and rich sound.

  • Pianos are extremely sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. These two factors alone are the top two causes of pianos going out of tune.

    Extreme fluctuations can cause warping, cracks, or even damage the soundboard. To prevent this, maintain a stable humidity level between 40-50% and keep the temperature around 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit in the room where your piano resides. Consider using a piano humidifier during dry seasons.

  • Where you position your piano can impact its health. Avoid placing it near windows, vents, or direct sunlight, as exposure to heat and drafts can lead to tuning instability and wood damage. Also, keep it away from areas with high moisture, such as kitchens or bathrooms.

  • Yes, playing your piano regularly is an essential part of its care. Consistent use prevents the felt dampers from hardening and maintains the mechanical components in good working condition. Neglecting regular playing can lead to sluggish keys and a loss of tonal quality.

  • Using a cover for your piano when it's not in use can shield it from dust, sunlight, and accidental spills. Additionally, make sure to keep liquids away from the piano to avoid potential damage to the wood, strings, or key mechanisms.