Frequently Asked Questions
How much does piano tuning cost in New York City?
At Tune NYC, a Standard Service (tuning + regulation) is $200. Our Pro Service (most popular) is $300 and includes tuning, regulation, voicing, and full interior/exterior detailing. For Steinway Spirio calibration, full restoration, or institutional work, premium packages are available. Prices reflect Steinway factory training, Spirio certification, and concert-level expertise.
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How often should I get my piano tuned?
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Most pianos in New York should be tuned twice a year due to seasonal humidity and temperature changes. Concert or recording instruments often need tuning before every performance. Manufacturers recommend new pianos be tuned every 3–4 months until strings stabilize. Stable, older pianos used less frequently may stretch to every 1–2 years. I’ll always give an honest recommendation tailored to your piano and use.
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What areas of NYC do you service?
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I provide in-home services throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. I also travel to Westchester, Long Island, the Hamptons, and select areas of New Jersey upon request.
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What makes Tune NYC different from other piano tuners?
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Steinway factory trained and Spirio certified
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Over a decade of experience as a concert and recording technician
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Clients include Carnegie Hall and world-renowned artists such as Adele
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Every piano, from family uprights to concert grands, receives meticulous, performance-level care.
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Do you work on Steinway Spirio pianos?
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Yes. As a Steinway Spirio-certified technician, I specialize in Spirio calibration and service. These advanced instruments require unique technical training, which I completed at the Steinway factory.
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Do you offer piano restoration?
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Yes. I provide on-site regulation, voicing, detailing, and repairs. For full rebuilds, I collaborate with trusted colleagues who specialize in complete restorations.
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Can you prepare my piano for a concert or recording?
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Absolutely. I specialize in preparing instruments for live performances, studio recordings, and livestreams. I ensure stability, tonal balance, and responsiveness at the highest professional level.
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How do I schedule an appointment?
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You can book directly through TuneNYC.com or contact me by phone/email. I intentionally limit my schedule to provide personalized service—so early booking is strongly recommended before holidays, school terms, or performance seasons.
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Do you work with schools and institutions?
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Yes. I regularly service pianos at schools, conservatories, universities, and concert venues. Institutions can schedule seasonal tunings and maintenance to keep multiple instruments performance-ready.
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Why is professional piano maintenance important?
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A piano is both a musical instrument and an investment. Regular maintenance:
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Preserves tone, touch, and value
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Prevents costly repairs by catching issues early
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Extends the life of the instrument
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What exactly is tuning?
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A piano has ~230 strings, each under ~200 lbs of tension. Tuning adjusts these strings so that each note has the correct frequency relationship to the others—like solving a complex puzzle unique to every instrument.
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What is a pitch raise? What is A440?
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Pitch raise: A preliminary “rough tuning” required if a piano has drifted too far from standard pitch. Without it, the piano won’t hold tune.
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A440: The internationally accepted frequency (440Hz) for the note “A” above middle C. It serves as the reference point for all tuning.
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Does my piano need tuning if it isn’t being used?
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Yes. Even unused, string tension shifts with humidity and temperature. Tuning every 1–2 years keeps it stable and prevents deterioration. Periodic checks also ensure pests or hidden damage aren’t reducing its value.
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How long does tuning take?
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A standard tuning takes 1–2 hours. A pitch raise plus fine tuning may take longer.
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Can the interior of my piano be cleaned?
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Yes. Dust, rust, and debris can be carefully removed using specialized tools—never water or polish. Cleaning improves both appearance and longevity. Bass strings and rusty strings can sometimes be polished as well.
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What if something spills in my piano?
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Don’t panic—call immediately. Liquids like coffee, wine, or even candle wax can often be removed without lasting harm. The sooner it’s addressed, the better the outcome.
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Where should I place my piano?
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Avoid direct sunlight
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Keep away from windows, doors, and HVAC vents
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Consider humidity control systems or covers for protection
The old advice about not placing a piano against an outside wall isn’t strictly true today—let me advise based on your space. -
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How can I find out how old my piano is?
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Check the manufacturer’s name (on the fallboard or plate) and the serial number (inside at the top of an upright or under the music desk/on the plate of a grand). Share these with me, and I’ll look up the production year.
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Still Have Questions?
If you don’t see your question here, feel free to contact me directly to discuss your piano’s needs.
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