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Extending the Life of your Grand Piano

On average, the lifespan of a piano is 50 years, but the way you care for yours will determine how long it will create beautiful music. When deciding where to put your musical instrument, consider the following factors: temperature, humidity, and position.

Avoid extreme temperatures in the room where it is located. The ideal temperature range is 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, take special heed to the humidity of the room. The ideal level is 45-60% relative humidity, but more important than the actual level is the consistency.

During the day, central air systems dry the air and draw moisture from the instrument's wood. At night, when the heat or air conditioning is turned off, the humidity rises. This humidity change causes the wood to shrink and expand which leads to tuning instability.

To correct the humidity inconsistencies, a humidifier or dehumidifier may be used. Also wherever possible, keep your instrument away from windows and out of direct sunlight.

Avoid locating it near a radiator or near a wall with heat or air conditioning vents. Windows, radiators, and vents produce changes in relative humidity which causes tuning instability and other serious problems.

Even though there are some brave souls that would attempt to try to fix their own car without the proper training, you should not do so with the instrument.

It's made up of over 5000 pieces and deserves yearly inspection and service from an experienced professional piano tuner. They will give attention to the following three factors that affect its performance:

Pitch - The pitch will gradually drop if not tuned regularly. Make sure you ask your tuner to put it back in concert pitch, if possible.

Touch - This refers to the piano action. The piano action is the playing mechanism and includes all parts such as the felts and leather parts. These parts gradually compress and ought to be regulated every five years.

Voicing - Voicing the upright regulates the hardness of the hammer against the felt. Changes in the felt will brighten or soften the tonal quality.

A grand piano is a delicate instrument and needs regular maintenance. Make sure you dust the instrument and its keys with a damp cloth often. If used at a school or institution, the keys should be locked up when not used to discourage unauthorized use. Encourage all users to be respectful of your fine instrument.

Another reason to close the fall (the cover for the keys) would be if the room is dusty. But otherwise, the fall should be left open to encourage the movement of air. Also, never place vases full of liquid on top of it. Spills can cause severe damage to the wood.

Be aware that placing anything on the top of its body, may causes scratches in the lacquer. A piano cover can also be used to protect the finish on the wood or if the room is dusty. Wait until the room is cooled after a performance before replacing the cover.

Another factor to consider is insect attacks. Your upright is made mostly of wood and felt, both of which are subject to moths and wood boring insects. If you suspect an insect problem, consult with a professional tuner immediately.

Grand pianos are made with a cast iron frame and are very heavy and are dangerous to move. To avoid injury to you or your piano, call a professional instrument moving company to help you move it.

Treat your upright with respect and give it the regular attention it needs. By taking the proper steps to maintain and care for your keyboard, you may ensure that it looks and sounds beautiful for many years to come.

Seed Newsvine

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