Some Basic Definitions:
TUNING: The most common piano maintenance, performed 1-4 times annually
or more for teaching or performance instruments. On a typical piano there
are 230 tuning pins, each of which is turned as to develop the proper mathematical
and, of course, musical relationship with each other. The standard for tuning
is A440; meaning A49 vibrates at 440 times per second. Collectively, these
230 strings place around 15 tons of compressive tension on the piano frame.
ACTION REGULATION: This process adjusts the many parameters of the action
(keyboard) to create a balanced feel and control. As pianos are played,
the action felts are compressed, wooden parts slowly change, and the constant
vibration and friction erode the ideal response from the piano. A full regulation will
return the instrument to "factory specification" and provide years
of consistency.
VOICING: The process of adjusting the tone of an instrument as opposed
to tuning. Whereas tuning is performed by adjusting the tuning pins on a
piano, voicing is achieved by addressing the hammers and strings of the
instrument. Routine voicing corrects the notes that have become unbalanced
in tone with the rest of the instrument, often sounding brassy or "tinny".
A tonal regulation is much broader in scope usually adjusting the entire
tone of the piano to better suit the needs and desires of the pianist. A
finely voiced piano has warmth and breath, while allowing for all the power
the piano has to offer. It also allows the pianist more control over the
dynamic range of the instrument.
HUMIDITY: More accurately, relative humidity. Pianos are constructed, to
a great extent, of natural, hygroscopic materials, such as wood and felt.
As the RH changes, the moisture content of these materials also changes,
allowing for unfavorable changes in your piano. Pianos kept in balanced
environments year round hold tune and pitch better. They are also less likely
to experience radical changes in touch/tone and are less likely to experience
the damaging effects of poor RH. The best environment for pianos is 42%
RH with a room temperature of about 70 degrees F. Homes that have dehumidifiers
on their air conditioning and humidity adding units (such as Aprilaire)
on their forced air heating generally provide friendly piano environments.
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