Does Your Piano Need a Pitch Raise? Understanding When and Why

If your piano hasn’t been tuned in a while, you might notice that its overall pitch has begun to slip. This can be a common issue, especially for pianos that haven’t received regular maintenance. When this happens, it may be time for a pitch raise to restore your instrument to the standard concert pitch of 440 Hz. In this post, I’ll explain what a pitch raise entails, why it’s necessary, and how you can determine if your piano needs one.

What is a Pitch Raise?

A pitch raise is the process of tuning a piano back up to concert pitch, typically 440 Hz for the note A above middle C. This process is particularly important for pianos that have gone a long time without tuning, as the strings can stretch and settle at a lower pitch.

The Process of Pitch Raising

1. Initial Tuning Above Concert Pitch:
   The first step in a pitch raise involves tuning each note to just above concert pitch. This step is crucial because it prepares the strings for the next phase of tuning.

2. Allowing Strings to Settle:
   After raising the pitch, the strings will need some time to settle. During this time, the strings may stretch slightly due to the increase in tension.

3. Final Tuning at Concert Pitch:
   Once the strings have settled, the piano is tuned again, bringing each note down to the precise concert pitch of 440 Hz. If the initial pitch raise was performed correctly, this final tuning will typically be quicker than a standard tuning session.

When Should You Consider a Pitch Raise?

You should consider scheduling a pitch raise if:

• You Play with Other Instruments:
  If you want your piano to harmonize with other instruments, such as woodwind or orchestral instruments, it’s important for your piano to be in tune with standard pitch.

• You’re Learning New Songs:
  If you’re practicing music that requires precise tuning, having your piano at concert pitch will enhance your playing experience.

• Your Piano Sounds Flat:
  If you’ve noticed that your piano sounds out of tune, especially when playing specific notes, it may be time for a pitch raise.

However, if you’re content with your piano being slightly flat but in tune with itself, you can choose to leave it as is.

How to Check if Your Piano Needs a Pitch Raise

You can easily check whether your piano needs a pitch raise by using a tuning app. I recommend using Pano Tuner, available on both Android and iOS. Here’s how to check:

1. Play the Note A Above Middle C:
   Strike the A note above middle C on your piano.

2. Check the Frequency:
   Use the tuning app to see if the note is at 440 Hz. If the reading shows that the pitch is lower than 440 Hz, your piano is flat and likely needs a pitch raise.

Conclusion

Understanding when your piano requires a pitch raise can help you maintain its sound quality and playability. If you have further questions about the process or want to schedule a pitch raise, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you ensure your piano sounds its best!