Piano Tuning as Preventive Maintenance
Proper piano tuning of a piano involves far more than simply adjusting the tension in the piano strings. It might include hammer voicing where the hammer impact area is shaped and needled, and action regulation: readjustment of the mechanical parts of the piano to compensate for wear to assure proper tone quality. Rather than simple piano tuning a periodic piano servicing will extend the life of the instrument and avoid degradation of the tonal quality. This both maintains the monetary value of the instrument should it ever be considered for sale, and preserves the quality of enjoyment to be experienced by the pianist and the audience. For maximum performance, piano tuning should be performed twice a year.
Qualify the Piano Tuner Selection of the piano tuner is critical:
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When available, a piano tuner who is capable of tuning by ear is preferable to a computerized tuning since “by ear” matches the result to the actual piano, not a generic model.
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Periodic training upgrade at the factory is required to assure up-to-date proficiency.
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I give preference to a pianist/tuner as being more appreciative of the results.
Care in Moving a Piano
The moving of a piano is a delicate task that must be done with care whether it be across the country or across the room. Amateur movers or even ordinary furniture movers can cause damage by lifting at the wrong points, or dropping what might seem to be an insignificant distance. Proper equipment employed by a minimum of two skilled personnel will assure a safe move without destroying the tuning, or worse, causing damage to the instrument that might require repair.
The Point is Performance
Of course the point of all this care is not simply to display a fine piece of furniture to best advantage. It is to maximize the enjoyment to be provided to players and audiences over the years. There is no musical instrument other than the piano that can provide such opportunities to so many family members. The accomplished pianists will spend many happy hours in solitude, mesmerized by the melodies being produced. Other family members and guests, whether in the immediate presence of the player or in an other part of the house, will share in the delights.
And, there is no other musical instrument that can provide a child with an equal opportunity to explore his musical talent, an opportunity lost for potential artists without access to a piano. The discipline of learning to play will stand in good stead in all future endeavors. And, the rewards of becoming proficient as a proficient speak for themselves in a most entertaining manner.
Purchase vs. Rental
While the initial outlay for a piano is substantial, the hourly rate for its entertainment provided over thousands of hours is smaller than most entertainments. The purchase of a piano is, financially, a better choice than renting. In renting, one finds after a period of years that the piano has been paid for without ownership. Provisional rental might be more satisfactory for those who are uncertain about committing to the full investment in a piano. This provides an opportunity to determine right size style and finish. Available choices include:
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Rental for a period of months where the rent can be applied to the purchase is available. With such a plan the buyer has great flexibility at the end of the trial period:
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Apply the paid rent to the purchase of the same instrument
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Apply the rent to an upgrade, having experienced the value of ownership.
Consult Cooper Piano
If you or a family member, adult or child, in Atlanta feels an urge to take piano lessons, talk to the folks at Cooper Piano, (404) 329-1663, before deciding on lessons and a decision to rent or buy an instrument. Ask for additional details on the information presented here.