Piano Care FAQ
Find practical answers about piano care, pricing, travel, and booking. The piano’s condition still guides the final service conversation.
Frequently asked questions.
These answers provide useful general context; the specific piano still guides the service conversation.
What is the difference between tuning, regulation, and voicing?
Tuning addresses pitch. Regulation addresses touch and mechanical response in the action. Voicing addresses tonal character. A piano may need one or more of these services, and an assessment helps separate the concerns.
What is a pitch raise?
A pitch raise is a preliminary correction for a piano that is significantly flat. It brings overall string tension closer to the intended level before a fine tuning. The need for one is determined after assessing the piano.
Do you tune pianos after a move?
Yes. Pierce offers tuning after moving. The right timing and whether the piano also needs a pitch raise depend on the instrument, its condition, the move, and its new environment.
What types of pianos does Pierce service?
Pierce services acoustic upright, grand, player, historic, and antique pianos. The useful first step is still to share the piano type and the service you need when booking.
What is the same-day cancellation or rescheduling policy?
A same-day cancellation is $100. A same-day reschedule is $50. Please update the appointment as early as possible when plans change.
How do travel charges work?
Travel is included within 20 miles of Pierce’s service base. Beyond that area, travel is billed at $0.65 per mile round trip. Ask before booking if you would like the appropriate travel fee quoted for your appointment location.
What happens at the first appointment?
Pierce begins with an assessment and consultation, looking at the piano as a whole rather than tuning in isolation. The first appointment also includes light dusting and key cleaning, followed by practical recommendations for the piano’s next steps.
How does Pierce approach tuning?
Pierce tunes by ear and listens beyond pitch alone. Each piano is approached as an individual instrument, with attention to touch, tone, condition, and the musical character the owner wants to bring forward.
How much is a standard tuning?
A fine tuning is $225 and typically takes about two hours. It includes an assessment, fine tuning, light dusting, and an exterior wipe-down. A piano that is significantly below pitch may need a pitch raise in addition to the standard tuning.
How often should a piano be tuned?
Pierce recommends two to four tunings each year. The right schedule depends on the piano’s use, condition, and environment, including changes in humidity and temperature.
Are repairs guaranteed?
Yes. Repairs are guaranteed. If a repaired item fails, Pierce will return in most cases to address it at no additional charge. Tuning is different: every piano gradually moves out of tune over time and needs ongoing care.
What does a pre-purchase inspection cost?
A pre-purchase inspection costs $100 plus travel and takes up to one hour. If Pierce attends the buyer’s play-test, the assessment is normally delivered verbally; a solo inspection includes a written summary.
Which payment methods are accepted?
Pierce accepts cash, check, bank transfer, and digital wallet payments.
How do I book?
Book Now links directly to Pierce’s Gazelle scheduling page.