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Foster Piano Tuning

Questions & Answers


Welcome to the frequently asked questions section

Question:
What makes a piano go out of tune?

Answer:
The major factor which contributes to a piano going out of tune are changes in humidity. As the humidity increases the soundboard tends to swell - the wood takes on the moisture in the air. Since the soundboard is held rigidly around its edges, it tends to move outwards towards the pianist. The strings pass over the soundboard bridges which are mounted directly on the soundboard, and as it swells the tension is increased on the strings. The effect is most prominent in the middle of the piano. Thus in times of higher humidity the pitch of the piano will rise, especially in the middle register. As the humidity drops - over the winter period when central heating is on - the reverse will happen.


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