Frequently asked questions
The questions we hear most, answered plainly.
How often should I tune my piano?
At least once a year for most homes. Pianos that get heavy use, were recently moved, or sit in rooms with big temperature and humidity swings often do better with two tunings a year. New pianos usually need more frequent tuning in their first year or two while they settle.
My piano hasn't been tuned in years. Is it too late?
Almost never. It most likely needs a pitch raise to bring it back toward A440, followed by a fine tuning. A follow-up within a few months helps the new tension settle and hold. Pianos are tougher than people expect.
Why does a piano go out of tune if nobody plays it?
Tension and weather, mostly. Around 18–20 tons of total string tension is constantly trying to pull the piano flat, and the wooden soundboard swells and shrinks as humidity changes through the seasons. Playing it barely moves the needle by comparison — the climate does the real work.
What's the difference between a tuning and a pitch raise?
A standard tuning fine-tunes a piano that's already near pitch. A pitch raise is a heavier correction for a piano that's drifted far below pitch — a first pass to restore overall tension, then a fine tuning on top. Think of it as prep work plus the tuning, versus the tuning alone.
How long does a tuning take?
A standard tuning is usually about 90 minutes in your home. A pitch raise plus tuning takes longer because it's effectively two passes over the instrument.
Do you come to my home?
Yes — all work is done in-home, since moving a piano to a shop and back would cost far more than the tuning itself. We just need access to the piano and a reasonably quiet space to listen.
What areas do you serve?
Toronto, North York, Etobicoke, Scarborough, and the surrounding GTA including Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan and Richmond Hill. Outside that range, a small travel charge may apply — just ask.
Can you fix sticking keys or buzzing notes?
Often, yes — many minor regulation and repair issues can be handled during a visit. For anything larger, you'll get an honest written estimate before any work begins.
My piano is very old or came with the house. Is it worth tuning?
Usually worth finding out. Many older uprights tune up beautifully. Occasionally one is past saving, and if that's the case we'll tell you plainly rather than charge for a tuning that won't hold.
Do you tune both uprights and grands?
Yes, both — verticals and grands of all sizes, in homes and institutions alike.
How do I prepare for the appointment?
Clear anything off the top of the piano and the area around it, keep the room quiet during the visit (tuning is done by ear), and have the piano accessible. That's all.
How do I book, and how do I pay?
Call us, email [email protected], or use the booking form on our contact page. Accepted payment methods: [list yours here — e.g. cash, e-transfer, card].