Tuning
I use a combination of aural techniques and an Electronic Tuning Device (ETD) in order to offer the most consistent and precise tuning. The fee for a basic tuning is $120 plus PST. If your piano is well-maintained, tuned approximately once a year, it will most likely require a basic tuning only. If it has been several years since the piano was tuned, or if the piano was recently outdoors or in a similar climate (in a poorly insulated storage unit, for example), the cost may be more as more time is required to bring the piano back to pitch. You can learn more about this in my blog post on pitch-raises.
Regulation
Regulation involves making many small adjustments to the action of the piano -- the mechanism that transfers power from your fingertip to the string. How do you know if it's out of regulation?
You may notice it is more difficult to play softly than it used to be, or than it is on other pianos. Or perhaps you just can't get the volume you want. Maybe the keys feel spongy or, conversely, like they're slapping your fingers away. Other regulation-related complaints include a lack of control or the feeling that you can't "dig in," There are many symptoms of poor regulation. But basically, if it doesn't feel great, it's difficult to play great.
Piano regulation can take from 5 to 15 hours, depending how many repairs to the action are required and how out of regulation it is. For a more precise estimate, an assessment can be made at the time of a tuning. I am a graduate of the Renner Academy Grand Action Master Course. The cost for regulation is $50/hour plus PST.
Repairs
Sticky keys, broken hammer, loose pedal, missing keytop, busted damper spring ... Sometimes things break, and many of the most common repairs can be done at the time of tuning. Other issues may require bigger fixes. Damper felts get worn out leading to excessive ringing, hammers get worn down causing a pinched and nasally tone. When action parts wear out, it can make it impossible to regulate smoothly.
A piano in need of major repairs does not necessarily mean a piano destined for the dump. Just like a vehicle, piano parts wear out. An assessment of your piano -- what repairs are required and the value of the instrument -- can help you make an informed decision about your investment. In my workshop, I am equipped to repair or rebuild action. The cost for repairs is $50/hour plus PST.
Inspection for Sale or Gift
The biggest barrier for a buyer in acquiring a piano is often not the cost of the piano, many of which are advertised for free, but the cost of moving the piano. "Buyers" want to know what they are getting first.
If you are looking to give away or sell a piano, I recommend first having the piano inspected. You will receive a checklist with an assessment of the condition of the soundboard, action parts, pin torque etc. If some of these parts require repair for the piano to function, this will be noted as well. This is a great way to give those looking to acquire a piano the confidence to invest in the cost of moving it. Cost for this service is $60. (Additional cost if ferry travel required.) For more on this service, visit my blog post: http://www.sunshinecoastpiano.ca/blog/you-cant-even-give-them-away-these-days
I accept cash, cheque or credit card for your convenience. Gift certificates now available! Click here for more info.
For more information on these services, please don't hesitate to contact me at coastpiano(at)gmail.com.
I use a combination of aural techniques and an Electronic Tuning Device (ETD) in order to offer the most consistent and precise tuning. The fee for a basic tuning is $120 plus PST. If your piano is well-maintained, tuned approximately once a year, it will most likely require a basic tuning only. If it has been several years since the piano was tuned, or if the piano was recently outdoors or in a similar climate (in a poorly insulated storage unit, for example), the cost may be more as more time is required to bring the piano back to pitch. You can learn more about this in my blog post on pitch-raises.
Regulation
Regulation involves making many small adjustments to the action of the piano -- the mechanism that transfers power from your fingertip to the string. How do you know if it's out of regulation?
You may notice it is more difficult to play softly than it used to be, or than it is on other pianos. Or perhaps you just can't get the volume you want. Maybe the keys feel spongy or, conversely, like they're slapping your fingers away. Other regulation-related complaints include a lack of control or the feeling that you can't "dig in," There are many symptoms of poor regulation. But basically, if it doesn't feel great, it's difficult to play great.
Piano regulation can take from 5 to 15 hours, depending how many repairs to the action are required and how out of regulation it is. For a more precise estimate, an assessment can be made at the time of a tuning. I am a graduate of the Renner Academy Grand Action Master Course. The cost for regulation is $50/hour plus PST.
Repairs
Sticky keys, broken hammer, loose pedal, missing keytop, busted damper spring ... Sometimes things break, and many of the most common repairs can be done at the time of tuning. Other issues may require bigger fixes. Damper felts get worn out leading to excessive ringing, hammers get worn down causing a pinched and nasally tone. When action parts wear out, it can make it impossible to regulate smoothly.
A piano in need of major repairs does not necessarily mean a piano destined for the dump. Just like a vehicle, piano parts wear out. An assessment of your piano -- what repairs are required and the value of the instrument -- can help you make an informed decision about your investment. In my workshop, I am equipped to repair or rebuild action. The cost for repairs is $50/hour plus PST.
Inspection for Sale or Gift
The biggest barrier for a buyer in acquiring a piano is often not the cost of the piano, many of which are advertised for free, but the cost of moving the piano. "Buyers" want to know what they are getting first.
If you are looking to give away or sell a piano, I recommend first having the piano inspected. You will receive a checklist with an assessment of the condition of the soundboard, action parts, pin torque etc. If some of these parts require repair for the piano to function, this will be noted as well. This is a great way to give those looking to acquire a piano the confidence to invest in the cost of moving it. Cost for this service is $60. (Additional cost if ferry travel required.) For more on this service, visit my blog post: http://www.sunshinecoastpiano.ca/blog/you-cant-even-give-them-away-these-days
I accept cash, cheque or credit card for your convenience. Gift certificates now available! Click here for more info.
For more information on these services, please don't hesitate to contact me at coastpiano(at)gmail.com.
