How often does my piano need to be tuned?
Pianos go out of tune due to humidity/temperature changes and from being played frequently. Most manufacturers recommend having their pianos tuned every six months. More often may be necessary if it's being played frequently.
Click here for service recommendations by piano manufacturers.
If a piano hasn't been tuned for a long time, it may first require a pitch raise to increase the tension of the strings. Once the pitch has been raised, the piano can then be fine-tuned. Click here for more information.
Ideally, a piano should stay close to the standard A440 pitch from one tuning to the next making each service visit a fine tuning.
Sluggish or sticking keys? Other repairs?
Most problems with keys can be fixed during the tuning appointment and are included with no extra charge.
During the tuning, I'll make minor adjustments when necessary to improve the piano. This usually includes sluggish, stuck or non-returning keys, bobbling/double striking hammers, squeaky or non-functioning pedals, replacing missing screws, removing objects jammed in the action, etc.
Occasionally, a repair will require extra work which will be determined after seeing the problem. Please let me know of any issues with the piano ahead of the appointment. I prefer to do all repairs before tuning and it also allows me to schedule the proper amount of time required.
If you would like your piano cleaned, please mention it when booking the appointment.
Service Area and Rates
I service several areas in the greater Los Angeles area including Pasadena, Altadena, Sierra Madre, San Marino, Alhambra, Monrovia, Arcadia, Monterey Park, Temple City, Rosemead, El Monte, Duarte, San Dimas, Claremont, Glendora, Covina, West Covina, Walnut, Rancho Cucamonga and surrounding areas, Glendale, La Crescenta-Montrose, La Cañada Flintridge, Sunland-Tujunga, Burbank, Studio City, Echo Park, Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Highland Park, Eagle Rock, East LA, Hollywood, North Hollywood, Chatsworth and surrounding areas.
For rate information, please call or text me at 626-487-6685 or email matt@matthilltuning.com. I'd like to hear about your piano so I can give you an estimate for your first appointment.
Payments can be made by cash, check, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, or credit/debit cards.
Preparing for the Piano Tuning
Before your appointment, kindly remove any objects from the top of your piano.
A standard tuning typically lasts about 90 minutes or less but may take longer if pitch adjustments or repairs are necessary.
A quiet time of day is preferable when scheduling.
Was your piano recently moved?
It's best to wait a couple weeks after a piano is moved before it's tuned. It needs time to acclimate to changes in tension from temperature and humidity fluctuations during the move and in its new environment. Otherwise, the tuning may not hold as well.