Piano Care
Practical guidance for keeping your piano healthy in the Sonoran climate.
Finding a qualified technician
A Registered Piano Technician (RPT) has passed a series of rigorous examinations on the maintenance, repair, and tuning of pianos. Only RPTs are authorized by The Piano Technicians Guild, Inc. to display the logo containing the words "Registered Piano Technician." Members of the Tucson Chapter follow the PTG Code of Ethics. To find a technician serving the Tucson area, consult the “Members” link on this website. For a national search, please go to ptg.org and click on “Find a Registered Piano Technician.” Alternatively, you may contact any of Tucson’s local chapter officers. They are listed in the “Officers” page.
Owner's guide
Six essentials for a long-lived instrument
Tune at least once a year
Most home pianos should be tuned at least once per year — twice for instruments in regular use. New pianos and recently moved instruments need tuning more often as they settle.
Mind humidity
Tucson's dry climate is hard on pianos. Stable humidity between 40–50% protects soundboards, pinblocks, and action parts. A whole-room humidifier or a piano-mounted humidity control system is a strong investment.
Avoid sun and vents
Don't place a piano in direct sunlight, against an exterior wall that gets afternoon sun, or near a heat/AC vent. Sudden temperature swings cause tuning instability and finish damage.
Clean gently
Dust the case with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid commercial furniture polish on satin or hand-rubbed finishes. Keys can be wiped with a slightly damp cloth and dried immediately — never with alcohol-based cleaners.
Listen for warning signs
Buzzing, sluggish keys, sticking notes, broken strings, or a sudden change in tone usually mean a technician should take a look. Catching issues early prevents larger repairs.
Play it regularly
Pianos are mechanical instruments — they like to be used. Regular playing helps keep felts conditioned and the action settled.
Piano Care FAQ
The Piano Technicians Guild, Inc. maintains a comprehensive set of piano care frequently asked questions. Visit the PTG Piano Care FAQs