Caring for Acoustic Pianos

Acoustic pianos are made up of a number of different materials including wood, copper, iron, and steel..  These materials are all affected differently by age, proper care, and environmental changes.  Proper care of your piano will not only help produce the best sound possible, but will also increase the life and performance ability later on down the road.

Inside the piano:

A new piano will probably require more attention during the first year while it adjusts and settles.  If you live near the beach or in an environment of extreme weather changes, your piano will probably require more attention on an ongoing basis.

Most tuners recommend having your piano tuned once or twice a year, except in exceptional circumstances like those listed above.    Regular service calls are very important because the further your piano drifts away from maximum health, the more difficult it is to bring back to good performance conditions.

 Besides just tuning your piano, the tuner/technician can make minor adjustments along the way – called “regulation” and “voicing” if and when necessary. 

Outside your piano 

 Avoid using chemicals and sprays as they may build up over time and harm the finish. 

Dust your piano with a soft cloth regularly, but do not use wood polishing sprays because they can build up over time and harm the finish.

To clean the keys, dampen a soft cloth in warm soapy water only and wring it out thoroughly.  Wipe the keys with this cloth, immediately followed by a dry cloth.                            

Caring for Electronic Keyboard Instruments

Store your keyboard in a safe, dry place where no coffee will spill on it.  If your keyboard needs repairs, be sure you bring it to an dealer or shop authorized to repair that brand.

Dust your keyboard with a soft cloth regularly. To clean the keys, dampen a soft cloth in warm soapy water only and wring it out thoroughly.  Wipe the keys with this cloth, immediately followed by a dry cloth.  Be very, very careful never to allow any liquid at all to seep into your instrument, as this can permanently damage or destroy electronic instruments.