# Tampa Piano Tuner/Technician > Piano tuning services in Tampa FL by Phil Frohna, a Tampa tuner offers piano tuneup services. Call 813-453-1077 to schedule a piano tuneup --- ## Pages - [Thank You For Your Submission](https://tampapianotuning.com/thank-you-for-your-submission/): We will be in touch with you shortly - [Contact](https://tampapianotuning.com/contact/): Address: 336 Celestial Oaks Dr Suite 102 Tampa Fl 33613 Phone: 727-288-7935 - [Voicing](https://tampapianotuning.com/piano-voicing-tampa-fl/): Tone regulating is the fine art of adjusting the tone quality of a piano so that each note has the... - [Action regulation](https://tampapianotuning.com/piano-action-regulation-tampa-fl/): Action regulation is the systematical adjustments and re-calibration of the 8000 parts of a piano action to yield proper movement.... - [Re-building](https://tampapianotuning.com/piano-re-building-restoring-tampa-fl/): Tampa Piano Tuning offers a full spectrum of piano repair services, ensuring that each piano not only sounds its best... - [Sample Page](https://tampapianotuning.com/sample-page/): This is an example page. It’s different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will... - [Tuning](https://tampapianotuning.com/piano-tuning-tampa-fl/): Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins,... --- ## Posts - [Unlocking The Mind's Potential: How Learning The Piano Strengthens The Brain](https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/05/06/how-learning-the-piano-strengthens-the-brain/): Learning to play the piano has long been associated with the creation of beautiful music, personal fulfillment, and cultural enrichment.... - [Striking The Right Note: Mastering The Craft Of Piano Hammer Replacement](https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/04/08/striking-the-right-note-mastering-the-craft-of-piano-hammer-replacement/): In the world of the acoustic piano, each component adds to a full, expressive sound. In all the fragile pieces,... - [Preserving The Sound Of Your Piano: What To Do After A Tuning](https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/03/04/preserving-the-sound-of-your-piano-what-to-do-after-a-tuning/): Having a tuned piano makes all the difference in the world, whether it is in a small house in Tampa... - [The Healing Properties Of Music: How Playing A Piano Reduces Stress And Anxiety](https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/02/05/how-playing-a-piano-reduces-stress-and-anxiety/): The Connection Between Music and Mental Health Music has long been known to affect emotion, induce relaxation, and contribute to... - [Tuning Stability: How To Keep Your Piano In Tune Longer](https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/01/08/tuning-stability-how-to-keep-your-piano-in-tune-longer/): Pianos are intricate instruments that produce beautiful melodies, but their complexity makes them prone to slipping out of tune. Changes... - [Keeping Your Piano In Tune For The Holiday Season](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/12/11/keeping-your-piano-in-tune-for-the-holiday-season/): As the holiday season approaches, having your piano in tune can elevate your festive gatherings, adding warmth and melody to... - [Unveiling The Mystery Of Piano Tuning](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/11/13/unveiling-the-mystery-of-piano-tuning/): In music, stories about lost and found treasures capture our imagination, reminding us of the unexpected beauty that emerges from... - [How Much Is a Piano Tuner?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/10/16/how-much-is-a-piano-tuner/): Preserving the rich, resonant sound of your piano requires regular upkeep, and a skilled piano tuner is essential in this... - [DIY Piano Tuning: Is It Worth The Hassle?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/09/11/diy-piano-tuning-is-it-worth-the-hassle/): A well-tuned piano is essential for producing beautiful music. But when the keys start to sound off, you’re faced with... - [How To Find The Perfect Piano Tuner: A Guide For Piano Owners](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/08/13/how-to-find-the-perfect-piano-tuner-a-guide-for-piano-owners/): Your piano is more than just a musical instrument; it’s an investment, a piece of art, and often a cherished... - [How Often Should You Tune Your Piano?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/07/09/how-often-should-you-tune-your-piano/): The art of piano tuning is a meticulous process that ensures a piano produces the harmonious sound it was designed... - [How To Fix Sticky Piano Keys](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/06/04/how-to-fix-sticky-piano-keys/): Sticky piano keys are a common issue that can significantly affect the playability and enjoyment of your instrument. Understanding the... - [The Science Of Piano Tuning: Acoustics, Physics, And The Art Of Perfect Sound](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/04/29/the-science-of-piano-tuning-acoustics-physics-and-the-art-of-perfect-sound/): Piano tuning is a fascinating blend of art and science. Producing a harmonious sound requires a deep understanding of the... - [Preparing For A Piano Tuning Appointment](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/03/25/preparing-for-a-piano-tuning-appointment/): If you’re a piano owner in Tampa, FL, you understand the importance of regular piano tuning to ensure your instrument... - [Understanding Different Types Of Pianos: Variations In Piano Tuning](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/02/28/understanding-different-types-of-pianos-variations-in-piano-tuning/): Piano tuning is an art that delicately balances science and craftsmanship. The process of tuning varies depending on the type... - [The Grand Piano: More Than Just An Instrument](https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/01/31/the-grand-piano-more-than-just-an-instrument/): The grand piano, a symbol of sophistication and musical prowess, stands out in the world of musical instruments for its... - [Comprehensive Guide To Piano Longevity](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/12/13/comprehensive-guide-to-piano-longevity/): Introduction In the world of pianos, age is more than just a number. It is a testament to the instrument’s... - [How To Determine If Your Piano Is Out Of Tune](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/11/27/how-to-determine-if-your-piano-is-out-of-tune/): When exploring the field of piano tuning, one soon dispels the myth that having a broad musical experience makes evaluating... - [Selecting A Keyboard Or A Grand Piano For Beginners](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/10/03/selecting-a-keyboard-or-a-grand-piano-for-beginners/): Any beginner to learning a grand piano is going to need a good instrument. If you wish to get a... - [Essential Piano Guidelines For Beginners](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/09/20/essential-piano-guidelines-for-beginners/): Embarking on the journey of learning the piano is an exhilarating adventure that offers both challenges and rewards. Over the... - [Piano Tuning Equipment And Tools](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/08/23/piano-tuning-equipment-and-tools/): The art of piano tuning is a delicate blend of precision, artistry, and science. Every piano, from the elegant grand... - [Advantages Of Tuning Your Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/07/17/advantages-of-tuning-your-piano/): Regularly performing piano tuning has numerous advantages. This regular piano tuning allows you to enjoy piano and maintain the instrument... - [Learning To Play Piano, Is It Hard?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/06/13/learning-to-play-piano-is-it-hard/): Typically, the piano is the first musical instrument that individuals learn to play. However, learning to play piano might not... - [Fine-Tune Your Musical Masterpiece With Integrated Piano Tuning](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/05/16/fine-tune-your-musical-masterpiece-with-integrated-piano-tuning/): The art of piano tuning is crucial to keep a piano in good condition, yet many people are confused as... - [Difference Between A Digital Piano And An Acoustic Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/04/18/difference-between-a-digital-piano-and-an-acoustic-piano/): Both pros and beginners would prefer to play on proper acoustic pianos. However, it is not just about piano tuning,... - [Selecting A Suitable Piano For Your Room](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/03/21/selecting-a-suitable-piano-for-your-room/): Once you have decided to purchase a piano, you will be eagerly awaiting the several hours you will spend playing... - [Learn Music Theory When You Learn Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/02/21/learn-music-theory-when-you-learn-piano/): Learning music theory is all about getting an in-depth understanding of the music you are looking to play. It provides... - [Playing Piano For Your Holiday Celebrations](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/12/13/playing-piano-for-your-holiday-celebrations/): Holidays and music are an inseparable duo. There are very few things out there that can bring about the warmth... - [A Guide For Cleaning Piano Keys!](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/11/15/a-guide-for-cleaning-piano-keys/): It doesn’t matter what you do; your piano keys are inevitably going to get dirty at some point in time.... - [Playing Piano And Composing Music! The Enjoyment!](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/10/18/playing-piano-and-composing-music-the-enjoyment/): Music composition is easily one of the more rewarding and enjoyable experiences you can get as a musician and a... - [Placement Of A Grand Piano Or An Upright Piano In A Room](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/09/28/placement-of-a-grand-piano-or-an-upright-piano-in-a-room/): Are you looking to keep your grand piano or an upright piano in ship-shaped condition to improve its life expectancy?... - [How To Practice Piano Playing For Improvement](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/08/09/how-to-practice-piano-playing-for-improvement/): When the learners become serious about playing piano, they tend to practice piano more and more. Everybody equates longer practicing... - [Tips For Buying Piano For Your Home](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/07/26/tips-for-buying-piano-for-your-home/): Are you contemplating buying a piano for your house? In case you are, selecting the right one for your home... - [How Music Positively Affects Your Life](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/06/28/how-music-positively-affects-your-life/): Music has been a part of our everyday existence for ages. From the moment humans started cutting logs and humming... - [How Soon Can I Do Piano Tuning After Moving?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/05/24/how-soon-can-i-do-piano-tuning-after-moving/): After a piano moving, the question often is if the owner should have piano tuning done. But do you need... - [Playing Piano At Any Age Can Have Amazing Effects](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/04/12/playing-piano-at-any-age-can-have-amazing-effects/): You may be a parent who wants his child to start playing Piano, or you have retired and looking to... - [Tips To Improve Your Concentration While Playing Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/02/23/tips-to-improve-your-concentration-while-playing-piano/): Learning piano is a terrific pastime however, your attempts are likely to get thwarted because of a lack of energy... - [Piano Pedals And Why They Are So Important](https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/01/18/piano-pedals-and-why-they-are-so-important/): If you look under your piano, you can find three brass-colored levers close to the bottom. They are piano pedals... - [Getting Back To Playing Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/12/15/getting-back-to-playing-piano/): If you are an adult student that has possibly learned to play piano as a child and you are interested... - [How To Select The Perfect Sized Piano For Your Room](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/10/13/how-to-select-the-perfect-sized-piano-for-your-room/): Now that you have decided you are buying a piano, you might be already anticipating enjoyment of it could bring... - [How To Learn Piano Yourself At Home?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/09/14/how-to-learn-piano-yourself-at-home/): A common question asked by aspiring pianists is if they can learn piano themselves at home. Yes, it is possible.... - [How Music Can Improve Your Life](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/08/10/how-music-can-improve-your-life/): Music has been around ever since humans started banging logs or humming along. It is a constant accompaniment that has... - [How To Prepare Yourself Before Playing Piano Before An Audience](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/07/13/how-to-prepare-yourself-before-playing-piano-before-an-audience/): How would you feel if you are asked to perform in front of a large audience? Does this idea make... - [Practice Playing Piano! How Often?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/06/08/practice-playing-piano-how-often/): Betterment of skills at playing the piano takes a lot of work and you are going to need a lot... - [Piano Tune Up In Zephyrhills, FL By Tampa Piano Tuning (Phil Frohna)](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/04/11/piano-tune-up-in-zephyrhills-fl-by-tampa-piano-tuning-phil-frohna/): Tampa Piano Tuning by Phil Frohna offers piano tuning services for all of Tampa, Florida and within a 70-mile driving... - [Taking Time To Learn Playing Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/04/06/taking-time-to-learn-playing-piano/): Many times it feels as if time is speeding up and becoming unavailable quickly especially after the last year. With... - [Art Of Practicing To Play Piano Well](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/03/03/art-of-practicing-to-play-piano-well/): Many people practice playing the piano or other similar musical instruments for longer hours every day while others practice just... - [Play Piano In Front Of An Audience](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/02/02/play-piano-in-front-of-an-audience/): How would you feel if someone asked to play piano in front of a huge audience? The very idea may... - [Tips For Practicing Playing Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/01/13/tips-for-practicing-playing-piano/): When you are not sure about where to make a beginning while sitting down at the piano, here are some... - [Digital Piano VS. Acoustic Piano! A Comparison!](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/12/16/digital-piano-vs-acoustic-piano-a-comparison/): When you are looking to purchase a piano, there are a few considerations you need to take into account before... - [Everything You Need To Know Before Buying A Celeste](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/11/11/everything-you-need-to-know-before-buying-a-celeste/): Celeste is a musical instrument that provides a bell-like sound. There is a shade of mystery about the celestes. Both... - [Refinishing A Used Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/10/15/refinishing-a-used-piano/): You can find the cheap used pianos plenty these days. They are set aside to make way for more sophisticated... - [Tune Up Kawai Upright CX SERIES 21D In Tampa, FL By Tampa Piano Tuning (Phil Frohna)](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/09/23/tune-up-kawai-upright-cx-series-21d-in-tampa-fl-by-tampa-piano-tuning-phil-frohna/): Kawai upright CX SERIES 21D. Hasn’t been tuned in many years. Required Pitch raise and then a fine tuning. - [Clean Piano Keys! Easy Steps!](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/09/09/clean-piano-keys-easy-steps/): If you are a regular piano player you will be aware of the fact that maintaining the piano in great... - [Piano Tuning Tips! Maintain A Pitch Perfect Piano!](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/08/05/piano-tuning-tips-maintain-a-pitch-perfect-piano/): A piano is an ongoing investment and there is no way around piano tuning and servicing regularly. But the truth... - [Learn Piano Skills From Home](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/06/23/learn-piano-skills-from-home/): Now that many of us have extra time on our hands due to the Coronavirus, one may consider picking up... - [Tuning Kimball Grand In Lutz, FL](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/05/12/tuning-kimball-grand-in-lutz-fl/): Tampa Piano Tuning has completed tuning Kimball Grand in Lutz, FL. Piano keys were out of alignment and needed an... - [How Playing Piano Can Be Good For Your Health](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/04/22/how-playing-piano-can-be-good-for-your-health/): We are going through a period in which many people are beginning to learn new activities, in an attempt to... - [Tune Up Of 25 Year Old Kawai Grand Piano By Tampa Piano Tuning (Phil Frohna)](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/04/08/tune-up-of-25-year-old-kawai-grand-piano-by-tampa-piano-tuning-phil-frohna/): Kawai Grand 25 years old but in very good shape. Lady who had me tune the piano heard about me... - [6 Piano Maintenance Tips For A Long Life](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/03/24/6-piano-maintenance-tips-for-a-long-life/): Several mechanical parts are used for making this organic instrument called piano including wood, felt, wool, and cloth. The material... - [Old Piano Has Been Tuned in Odessa, FL](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/03/12/old-piano-has-been-tuned-in-odessa-fl/): This piano was tuned by Phil Frohna 16 years ago. A customer’s daughter has been playing it for 10 years... - [The Samick Studio upright piano has been tuned in Brandon, FL](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/03/06/the-samick-studio-upright-piano-has-been-tuned-in-brandon-fl/): The Samick Studio upright piano has been tuned and a few sticking piano keys have been fixed in Brandon, FL... - [Piano Placement In The Home](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/02/18/piano-placement-in-the-home/): Piano placement is very important in your home. After all, pianos are a large investment. So you want to make... - [Why Your Piano Needs A Piano Tuner](https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/01/21/why-your-piano-needs-a-piano-tuner/): Your piano is most likely very special to you. However, if you do not tune your piano on a regular... - [How To Protect The Piano During Transportation](https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/10/16/how-to-protect-the-piano-during-transportation/): The presence of a piano in the home always gives guests incredible impressions. A powerful tool impresses with a soft... - [Benefits of Playing Piano for Your Body and Mind](https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/07/17/benefits-of-playing-piano-for-your-body-and-mind/): There are many musical instruments, all of them are unique and have their own characteristics. The piano is a unique... - [Why You Need To Work With The Same Piano Tuner](https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/06/12/why-you-need-to-work-with-the-same-piano-tuner/): An interesting concept that is evidently evolving around the world is the principle of the instrument’s operation by one tuner,... - [How to Arrange Your Home With a Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/05/22/how-to-arrange-your-home-with-a-piano/): Grand piano and piano give the house a special atmosphere. Even if none of the adult members of the family... - [Tips For Proper Piano Maintenance](https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/02/20/tips-for-proper-piano-maintenance/): If we are holders of an acoustic keyboard instrument (digital piano or piano), we must ensure its good functioning. A... - [Is It Worth It To Learn Piano If You Don't Plan To Get Good At It?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/01/16/is-it-worth-it-to-learn-piano-if-you-dont-plan-to-get-good-at-it/): Did you know that learning to play keyboard instruments can be a very effective form of self-improvement? ! Playing the... - [Ray Charles: Pianist, Songwriter, Singer](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/12/19/ray-charles-pianist-songwriter-singer/): September 23, 1930 in the small town of Albany, Georgia, the Robinsons family was born a boy Ray Charles Robinson.... - [Why Learning Music Theory is Important for all Pianists](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/11/28/why-learning-music-theory-is-important-for-all-pianists/): The music theory is not a new concept, it appeared quite a long time ago. The music theory was taught... - [Learn Piano Easily and Effectively](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/10/17/learn-piano-easily-and-effectively/): Learning to play any musical instrument is quite a challenge, which will require a huge amount of patience and perseverance.... - [Express Your Creativity Through Playing the Piano Yamaha](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/07/18/express-your-creativity-through-playing-the-piano-yamaha/): Can I make money on my musical talents? You can, if you do not wait for someone to ask the... - [Why do We Like to Dance?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/06/20/why-do-we-like-to-dance/): For some people, dance is fun and a pleasant pastime, for someone – a way to lose weight and gain... - [Where is the Best Place in the House to Put a Piano?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/05/29/where-is-the-best-place-in-the-house-to-put-a-piano/): In order to choose the most suitable place for installing the piano, you need to consult with experts or with... - [The Effect of Study Music on Human Health and Brain Growth](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/04/25/the-effect-of-study-music-on-human-health-and-brain-growth/): Music lessons or learning a game on any musical instrument can positively influence the development of your brain in many... - [Piano Care – How to Maintain Your Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/04/17/piano-care-how-to-maintain-your-piano/): In order for the piano to serve for a long time, follow the rules of piano care: 1. The instrument... - [Why It's Important to Tune Your Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/03/21/why-its-important-to-tune-your-piano/): If you are an unprofessional musician, but a simple music lover, then you may not be able to notice the... - [10 Myths About Learning the Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/02/27/10-myths-learning-piano/): For more than three centuries people have known the pianoforte. And no wonder that during such a time, there are... - [How should an adult beginner start learning piano?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/01/23/adult-beginner-start-learning-piano/): While visiting classical concerts, perhaps, many of us have a question: how to learn to play the piano, how the... - [The Correct Posture for Piano Playing!](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/12/19/correct-posture-piano-playing/): As you know, a good foundation is the basis that the whole structure will be stable. In the case of... - [10 Ways Learning to Play Piano May Help Your Child's Development](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/11/21/10-ways-learning-play-piano-may-help-childs-development/): Everyone knows that playing the piano is useful for the child. Have you ever thought that besides direct benefit from... - [The best age to begin playing piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/10/17/best-age-begin-playing-piano/): Music affects both children and adults and plays an important role in the mental and physical development of children, if... - [Why Should You Tune Your Piano More Often?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/08/15/tune-piano-often/): Of all the posters that a piano technician or a tuner has to face, the above question is undoubtedly the... - [The Normal Cost of Tuning a Piano](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/07/11/normal-cost-tuning-piano/): Hardly anybody will dispute that a piano looks massive and bulky. Nevertheless, in reality, it is one of the most... - [How music can add a spark of positivity in every sphere of your life?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/06/06/music-can-add-spark-positivity-every-sphere-life/): 1. Music can help unlock your latent creativity Music can go a long way in cheering you up which in... - [5 Distinct Ways in Which Piano Classes Can Benefit Youngsters](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/05/16/5-distinct-ways-piano-classes-can-benefit-youngsters/): Music has always had a soothing and uplifting effect upon the human psyche since times immemorial. Music, it has been... - [Do You Really Need to Opt for Piano Tuning?](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/04/13/really-need-opt-piano-tuning/): You could be an ace pianist or planning to take lessons for becoming one. Regardless of whether you’re an acclaimed... - [Efficiency of work](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/06/efficiency-of-work/): Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins,... - [Quality assurance](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/06/quality-assurance/): Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins,... - [Experience of many years](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/06/experience-of-many-years/): Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins,... - [Discounts](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/06/discounts/): Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins,... - [Tuning](https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/05/tuning/): Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins,... --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2021-09-01 - Modified: 2021-09-01 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/thank-you-for-your-submission/ We will be in touch with you shortly var body = document. body; body. classList. add("thanks-page"); --- - Published: 2017-03-06 - Modified: 2025-11-24 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/contact/ Address: 336 Celestial Oaks Dr Suite 102 Tampa Fl 33613 Phone: 727-288-7935 --- - Published: 2017-03-05 - Modified: 2025-07-07 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/piano-voicing-tampa-fl/ Tone regulating is the fine art of adjusting the tone quality of a piano so that each note has the desired amount of brilliance or mellowness. If a mellow sound is desired from a brighter piano, careful needling of the felt cushion behind the striking point of hammer is done. This is due to the fact that a soft contact point yields a warm/mellow sound. In the event a pianist prefers a brighter sound from a mellow sounding piano; compacting the hammer felt through a chemical and or physical process is performed, as a hard contact patch yields a brilliant/crisp sound. In addition, it must be known that all pianos get brighter sounding over time as a result of usage. As the hammer strike the string, the felt compacts and hardens. So, every so often a piano should be voiced to prevent a overly bright, ear piercing tone. Rest assure that what ever tone type you prefer; my 50 years of experience uniquely qualifies me to be the man for the job. Call me with any questions you have or to receive a fast free quote. --- - Published: 2017-03-05 - Modified: 2025-07-07 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/piano-action-regulation-tampa-fl/ Action regulation is the systematical adjustments and re-calibration of the 8000 parts of a piano action to yield proper movement. Over time playing and temperature change cause parts to misalign. Action regulation should be performed once every 5-15 years, depending upon usage. Call me today with questions you have or to receive a fast free quote. --- - Published: 2017-03-05 - Modified: 2025-07-07 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/piano-re-building-restoring-tampa-fl/ Tampa Piano Tuning offers a full spectrum of piano repair services, ensuring that each piano not only sounds its best but also maintains its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Their repair services include: Piano Key Repair and Replacement: Addressing issues like broken or sticking keys to restore the tactile experience of playing. Piano String Repair and Replacement: Fixing or replacing damaged strings to revive the piano's sound quality. Action Regulation: Adjusting the mechanical components of the piano to improve touch and response. Pedal Repair and Adjustment: Ensuring the smooth functioning of all pedals for dynamic playing. Cabinet Repairs: Repairing physical damage to the piano's exterior, including scratches, dents, and refinishing needs. Soundboard Repairs: Addressing cracks or warping in the soundboard to enhance sound projection and quality. Piano Tuning Pin and Pinblock Repairs: Ensuring the stability and tuning integrity of the piano. Piano Repair in Tampa is dedicated to preserving the legacy of each piano, using its expertise to diagnose and remedy a wide range of issues. With a focus on quality and attention to detail, they ensure that every repair enhances the instrument's performance and longevity. Call me with any questions you have or to receive a fast free quote. --- - Published: 2017-03-03 - Modified: 2017-03-05 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/sample-page/ This is an example page. It's different from a blog post because it will stay in one place and will show up in your site navigation (in most themes). Most people start with an About page that introduces them to potential site visitors. It might say something like this: Hi there! I'm a bike messenger by day, aspiring actor by night, and this is my website. I live in Los Angeles, have a great dog named Jack, and I like piña coladas. (And gettin' caught in the rain. ) ... or something like this: The XYZ Doohickey Company was founded in 1971, and has been providing quality doohickeys to the public ever since. Located in Gotham City, XYZ employs over 2,000 people and does all kinds of awesome things for the Gotham community. As a new WordPress user, you should go to your dashboard to delete this page and create new pages for your content. Have fun! --- - Published: 2017-03-03 - Modified: 2025-07-07 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/piano-tuning-tampa-fl/ Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins, bridges and soundboard. There are many factors that cause a piano to go out of tune such as humidity, temperature changes, natural stretching of the strings, slipping tuning pins and usage. At minimum, a piano should be tuned once a year. However a restaurant, institution or church that uses the piano several hours each day might have their piano tuned as often as every month. In situations like these or for people with acute hearing I will work out a large frequent tuner discount. I offer piano tuning services for all of Tampa, Florida and within a 70 mile driving distance of Tampa proper. I do offer church, military and senior citizen discounts; as well as discounts given for multiple pianos at one site and referral to friends. Call me with any questions you have or to receive a fast free quote. --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2025-05-06 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/05/06/how-learning-the-piano-strengthens-the-brain/ Learning to play the piano has long been associated with the creation of beautiful music, personal fulfillment, and cultural enrichment. However, beneath the melodies and rhythms lies a profound impact on the mind itself. For those who are passionate about playing the piano, Tampa offers not only an opportunity for musical expression but also a gateway to enhancing cognitive function in powerful ways. Enhancing Memory Through Musical Mastery One of the most well-known cognitive applications of playing piano is in the field of memory. Reading music, hand coordination, and maintaining tempo require a musician to access and solidify multiple types of memory simultaneously. Both working memory, which keeps information temporarily available, and procedural memory, which governs how we perform actions, are employed in playing the piano. Researchers have proven that individuals who learn to play the piano at a young age tend to have improved memory abilities later in life compared to those who do not know how to play the piano. The improvement is not limited to musical activity itself, however, as it also extends to intellectual capability and everyday activities. Even individuals who learn to play the piano as adults report that their memory capabilities remain sharp, demonstrating that the mind remains malleable and sensitive to musical input throughout life. Developing Problem-Solving Skills Using Challenging Learning Playing the piano is not just about mechanical practice, as it requires thinking, flexibility, and strategic planning. If there is one tough passage to be overcome, then there is analysis of structure to be done, identifying technical obstacles, and practical arrangements to overcome them. This prepares the mind to be resourceful and resilient. Furthermore, piano students regularly face concurrent multitasking challenges, including reading sheet music, navigating dynamic changes, and maintaining tempo simultaneously. Such cognitive gymnastics have the effect of developing executive function capabilities, which are highly useful in sound decision-making, planning, and organized activities both within and outside the musical context. Developing Emotional Intelligence and Concentration Piano study develops sensitivity and emotional awareness. Music itself is an emotional expression, and reflective playing enables pianists to interpret and communicate emotion with sensitivity and depth. This heightened emotional awareness can lead to improved empathy and stronger relationships between individuals in both personal and professional contexts. Furthermore, playing the piano requires focus and concentration. Practising for an upcoming concert or deciphering an old favorite engages pianists' full attention for hours at a time. Such dedication, practiced regularly, develops the ability to concentrate in other areas of life and improves productivity and mental clarity. Developing Brain Plasticity and Lifelong Learning The concept of brain plasticity—the brain's ability to rewire itself by forming new neural connections—is central to understanding how piano playing affects cognitive health. The study of the piano is an impetus to create such connections, particularly between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. More connections lead to increased functionality of brain areas, resulting in improved reasoning, thought, and coordination. Specifically, cognitive stimulation associated with piano study can be neuroprotective against cognitive decline associated... --- - Published: 2025-04-08 - Modified: 2025-04-08 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/04/08/striking-the-right-note-mastering-the-craft-of-piano-hammer-replacement/ In the world of the acoustic piano, each component adds to a full, expressive sound. In all the fragile pieces, though, piano hammers stand alone. They get charged with striking the strings and setting the tonal character of each note. Over time, they take a beating, succumbing to diminished clarity and unbalanced tone. For anyone who holds their instrument, dear, knowing how to replace worn-out hammers is essential to piano maintenance. If you're a professional pianist or a music lover who relies on a professional Tampa piano tuner, knowing hammers replacement will enable you to maintain the voice of your piano for generations to come. Understanding the role of piano hammers Piano hammers are small, felt-covered devices attached to wooden shanks that strike the strings when a key is played. Every note on the keyboard is associated with its own hammer, which should be precisely set and voiced to generate an even, nice sound. As the hammers age, the felt will compact and become grooved in the treble and bass ranges, where the majority of use takes place. This compression can lead to rough or muffled sound, reduced dynamics, and unbalanced volume throughout the keyboard. Common signs that hammers are worn out include grooves or impressions on hammer felt, general loss of tone, buzzing or double-striking sounds, and an inability to control volume accurately. These changes develop gradually, and therefore, many pianists will not realize them until the instrument's tone becomes dull or unbalanced. The replacement process of the hammer Piano hammer replacement is an exquisite and delicate process that requires experience and precision. It begins with a thorough assessment of the state of the original hammers. A trained technician will analyze the amount of wear, the age of the piano, and whether reshaping or voicing will restore the instrument to its previous performance or whether a full replacement would be more appropriate. Once the decision to replace the hammers is made, the old hammers are gently removed from their shanks. In most cases, a piano technician will have the hammers and shanks replaced simultaneously, especially in older pianos where structural deterioration or outdated material demands a complete replacement. Subsequently, new hammers are selected based on the piano's make, model, and tonal characteristics. Fine hammer sets consist of dense, high-quality felt and hardwood and must be shaped and voiced specifically for the instrument. New hammers are affixed to the shank with glue and carefully adjusted so each hammer strikes the strings at the correct angle and with uniform force. Voicing and regulation complete the process. When installed, the technician will be required to tune the hammers to adjust the tone to a high level of precision. This is done by changing the density and texture of the hammer felt using needling or filing. Voicing will bring out the warmth, brightness, or clarity that the player needs. Regulation, however, will ensure that all the hammers respond equally to the player's touch. It involves adjusting the hammer's travel, alignment, and escapement to... --- - Published: 2025-03-04 - Modified: 2025-03-04 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/03/04/preserving-the-sound-of-your-piano-what-to-do-after-a-tuning/ Having a tuned piano makes all the difference in the world, whether it is in a small house in Tampa or a large concert hall. However, it is important to note that tuning is not the only practice that is required for the instrument to maintain its tone and durability. Protecting your instrument after a tuning session will ensure it stays in the best condition as much as possible. Learn what to do and what not to do regarding your piano’s placement, cleaning, and future tuning. Where to Place Your Piano. The way your piano is placed in the room affects its tuning precision. Temperature and humidity changes can lead to the wood swelling or contracting, which in turn changes the pitch of the instrument. It is recommended that your piano should not be located in a sunny position, near vents, or close to exterior walls where the climate conditions can change. Moderate humidity is good for the instrument and ensures that the piano remains in tune and does not warp. Using a humidifier or a dehumidifier can also be helpful if the room has low humidity or high humidity, respectively. How to Clean It Without Causing Damage to It. Piano is prone to collecting dust and dirt, which can make the instrument look bad and perform poorly. Wipe the keys down gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. If more thorough cleaning is required, then use a slightly damp cloth and dry the instrument immediately; do not use too much water as this can be pumped between the keys and cause damage. For the cabinet and wood parts, it is enough to use dry cloth, and in some cases, one can use a polish for pianos to maintain the finish. If at all possible, it is better to use gentle cleaning methods than to use aggressive chemicals or sprays. Avoiding Drastic Temperature Changes. Furnishings, including pianos, are most affected by changes in the environment. Temperature changes can cause the instrument to tuning instability, and your piano will be out of tune sooner than it should. It is advisable to keep the room temperature as constant as possible so that it does not affect the wooden structure and the strings of the instrument. If there are large variations in humidity during the course of the year, it may be worthwhile to buy a climate control device or a humidity control unit for the piano to keep the humidity in check. When to Get Your Next Tuning Done. Tuning is the process of adjusting the pitch of the piano strings to improve the tone and accuracy of the instrument. Most pianos need to be tuned every six months, but this time may differ depending on the piano's usage and the conditions in which the piano is kept. A piano that is used frequently for practice or performance may require more frequent tuning than one that is not used very often. This is because a piano technician will know that the instrument... --- - Published: 2025-02-05 - Modified: 2025-02-05 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/02/05/how-playing-a-piano-reduces-stress-and-anxiety/ The Connection Between Music and Mental Health Music has long been known to affect emotion, induce relaxation, and contribute to overall wellness. Out of all instruments, a piano holds a significant role in its function. Playing a soothing melody or a moving composition, a session with a piano can act as a calm oasis for life’s daily stresses. With its frenzied pace in Tampa, having a private source for tension release is a godsend. The Physiology of Playing a Piano and Reducing Stress Research proves that playing an instrument, a piano, engages several parts of the brain at one time. With a combination of thinking, motor function, and sound processing, a form of mental exercise occurs. With such high stimulation, the mind can move its attention off concerns, creating a healthy break from tension. Aside from distraction, playing the piano helps balance the body’s response to tension. It’s been noticed that performers have lowered cortisol, a tension hormone, in blood tests. Regularly practicing, even casually, can form a balanced state of emotion. The Mediative Properties of a Piano Many say that a piano is a form of meditation. A state of awareness is attained with a repetitive motion in striking keys, reading sheet music, or improvising melody. In a state of playing, a state of focused, present thinking takes over, much in the same way a state of meditation takes over when in a state of calm. A state of calm such as this lessens tension, quiets a frenzied mind, and induces a peaceful state of being. People in Tampa in search of a way to unwind after a long workweek, can discover that a session at the keys can act as a form of self-care. Unlike passive television, a session at the keys engages one in full and, thus, a more effective mechanism for moving mental energy out of a state of tension. Emotional Outlet and the Piano Perhaps one of the greatest values of a session at the keys is its function for expression of emotion. Music affords a mechanism for expressing feelings that cannot be verbalized. Expressing joy, for example, through a melody, can act as an outlet for feelings that could become trapped. For a stressed-out individual or a sufferer of anxiety, having an outlet for expression can make a big difference. A mechanism for channeling feelings into melody can permit a feeling of unencumbrance, and life can become easier to manage. In a city like Tampa, with its work, family, and social life, having a private mechanism for decompression can make a big difference. Mental Health Cognitive Strengths Aside from its function in emotion, a session at the keys strengthens cognitive processes that promote mental wellness overall. Reading both hands and keeping a beat sharpens one's recall, refines one's concentration, and helps with problem-solving. The impact extends off the keys, too. Having a sharp mind tends to make one a wiser decision-maker, with a heightened capacity for keeping one's wits about oneself and fending off... --- - Published: 2025-01-08 - Modified: 2025-01-08 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2025/01/08/tuning-stability-how-to-keep-your-piano-in-tune-longer/ Pianos are intricate instruments that produce beautiful melodies, but their complexity makes them prone to slipping out of tune. Changes in humidity, temperature, and usage all impact how well a piano holds its pitch. For piano owners in Tampa, FL, maintaining tuning stability between professional tunings is achievable with thoughtful measures and consistent care. Understanding Why Pianos Fall Out of Tune A piano’s construction involves thousands of moving parts, many sensitive to environmental changes. The strings, made of high-tension steel, are stretched over a wooden soundboard. Because wood naturally expands and contracts in response to humidity fluctuations, the tension on the strings can shift, causing notes to go sharp or flat. In Tampa’s humid climate, these environmental changes can be particularly pronounced. Even small shifts in humidity levels can have a noticeable effect on your piano’s tuning stability. Additionally, frequent playing stresses the strings, further contributing to tuning drift. The Role of Consistent Environmental Conditions To help your piano stay in tune longer, one of the most effective strategies is to maintain a stable environment. Avoid placing your piano near windows, doors, or heating and cooling vents. Direct sunlight and drafts can create temperature fluctuations, while vents cause uneven humidity. A climate control system, such as a dehumidifier or humidifier, can protect your piano from humid air. Many piano owners also invest in a humidity control system specifically designed for pianos, such as a Dampp-Chaser system. These systems regulate the humidity around the piano, helping the soundboard and strings remain stable. Regular Maintenance and Care While professional piano tuning is essential, there are steps you can take to prolong tuning stability between visits. Keep your piano clean by regularly dusting its exterior and gently cleaning the keys with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaning agents that could damage the finish or seep into the delicate internal components. Limit any sudden or extreme movements of the piano, as moving it can disrupt its internal components and impact its tuning. If relocation is unavoidable, enlist the help of professionals who specialize in piano moving to ensure it’s handled with care. Playing Habits That Contribute to Stability How you play your piano can also influence its tuning stability. While it’s natural to want to express yourself dynamically, excessive force on the keys can stretch the strings unevenly and cause the tuning to shift. Striking a balance between dynamic playing and gentle touch helps minimize stress on the strings. Additionally, consistency in your playing schedule is beneficial. Pianos that are played regularly but not excessively tend to hold their tuning better than those that experience prolonged periods of inactivity followed by intense use. Scheduling Professional Tunings No matter how well you care for your piano, professional tuning is necessary to keep it sounding its best. A well-maintained piano typically needs tuning at least twice a year. However, in environments with significant humidity changes, pianos may require more frequent tunings. Professional tuners adjust the pitch and inspect the instrument for signs of wear or damage... --- - Published: 2024-12-11 - Modified: 2024-12-11 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/12/11/keeping-your-piano-in-tune-for-the-holiday-season/ As the holiday season approaches, having your piano in tune can elevate your festive gatherings, adding warmth and melody to cherished moments with loved ones. Whether a sing-along by the fireplace or a solo performance showcasing your musical talent, a well-maintained piano ensures every note resonates beautifully. In Tampa, where the winter months still bring changes in temperature and humidity, keeping your piano in optimal condition is essential for its performance and longevity. The Impact of Environmental Changes on Pianos Pianos are intricate instruments that respond to even subtle environmental fluctuations. During the winter, changes in humidity can cause the wooden components of a piano to expand or contract. These shifts affect the strings' tension and the soundboard's alignment, resulting in detuning. Tampa's humid climate, even in cooler months, can exacerbate this issue, making regular piano tuning a priority. Aside from humidity, temperature changes also play a role. When the air becomes drier or cooler, the delicate balance of the piano’s internal components can be disrupted. A detuned piano affects sound quality and can lead to wear and tear over time if not addressed. The Benefits of Pre-Holiday Tuning Scheduling a professional piano tuning session before the holidays ensures your instrument is in its best condition. The benefits go beyond sound quality: Enhanced Musical Experience: A properly tuned piano produces clear, harmonious notes, making every holiday carol and recital sound exceptional. Whether you’re playing solo or accompanying a choir, the difference in sound is unmistakable. Preventive Care: Tuning your piano regularly helps maintain its structural integrity. Addressing minor issues early can prevent more extensive, more expensive repairs. Longevity: Pianos are investments meant to last for generations. Routine maintenance, including tuning, helps preserve their value and functionality. Stress Relief: Playing the piano reduces stress and fosters creativity. During the holiday rush, taking a moment to play can provide a welcome escape and an opportunity to share music with loved ones. Tips for Piano Care During the Holiday Season In addition to tuning, there are steps you can take to protect your piano during the holidays: Regulate Humidity: Use a humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain consistent humidity levels. Ideally, the humidity should be between 40% and 50%. Control Temperature: Avoid placing your piano near heaters, fireplaces, or drafty windows. These can cause sudden temperature changes that may affect the instrument. Keep It Clean: Dust your piano regularly to prevent buildup that can interfere with its mechanics. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface and keys. Limit Decorations: While adorning your piano with holiday decorations is tempting, heavy or sharp items can cause scratches or damage. Choosing a Tuning Professional Finding a reliable piano tuning expert ensures your instrument remains in peak condition. Experienced professionals understand the local climate's unique challenges and can provide tailored care for your piano. Regular tuning schedules, typically every six months, are recommended to keep the instrument sounding its best year-round. Many tuning services offer additional maintenance, such as repairing sticky keys or adjusting the action... --- - Published: 2024-11-13 - Modified: 2024-11-13 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/11/13/unveiling-the-mystery-of-piano-tuning/ In music, stories about lost and found treasures capture our imagination, reminding us of the unexpected beauty that emerges from mystery. Recently, a curious tale unfolded, shedding light on pianos scattered across various locations in Salt Lake City and the dedicated individuals who solved the enigma. This account, which highlights the diligent work of piano tuners and enthusiasts, serves as a reminder of the passion and expertise that goes into maintaining these beloved instruments. Unraveling the Mystery of the Pianos Residents in Salt Lake City started noticing upright pianos appearing in unlikely places—abandoned on sidewalks, near parks, and outside public venues. This unusual phenomenon piqued the curiosity of local music lovers and community members. Each piano, though worn and often untuned, held its history. The appearance of these instruments led many to wonder about the story behind them and what prompted their sudden emergence. The answer lay in the dedication of a local piano tuner who had been servicing and repurposing old pianos. As these instruments age and accumulate wear, they sometimes fall out of use and into neglect. Motivated by a desire to give them one final moment in the spotlight, the tuner placed these pianos in public spaces for anyone to play. This creative approach drew attention to the artistry of piano tuning and encouraged spontaneous music-making and community bonding. The Art of Piano Tuning: Preserving Sound and Memories A piano is a complex instrument; keeping it in working order requires specialized knowledge. A reliable piano tuner is indispensable for residents in Tampa and other music-loving communities to ensure their instruments produce clear, rich sounds. The story of the Salt Lake City pianos illustrates the significant role of piano tuners—in maintaining instruments and preserving memories and experiences tied to music. Piano tuners possess an acute understanding of acoustics and mechanics, meticulously adjusting each string to create harmony. This skill can transform a neglected piano from a dissonant relic to an instrument capable of producing beautiful music once more. The pianos that appeared in Salt Lake City, each with its imperfections, demonstrated how an experienced piano tuner can rejuvenate even the most weathered instruments. Connecting Communities Through Music Placing pianos in public spaces is more than just an act of whimsy; it fosters connection. Music has long been known to unite people, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to share moments of joy, reflection, and creativity. In Tampa, where local musicians, students, and teachers rely on well-maintained pianos, the services of a skilled piano tuner become an integral part of the cultural fabric. Public pianos remind us that music transcends formal performances and can be a spontaneous part of daily life. These instruments, tuned or not, invite passersby to pause, play a tune, or listen to someone else’s impromptu performance. Once solved, the Salt Lake City mystery revealed not only the dedication of the piano tuner but also the unifying power of music within a community. The Legacy of a Piano Tuner’s Work The story of these pianos concludes with... --- - Published: 2024-10-16 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/10/16/how-much-is-a-piano-tuner/ Preserving the rich, resonant sound of your piano requires regular upkeep, and a skilled piano tuner is essential in this endeavor. Whether you're a professional performer or enjoy playing as a hobby, neglecting routine tuning can lead to a noticeable decline in your instrument's sound quality over time. If you're curious about the cost of hiring a piano tuner in Tampa, several factors influence the price—from the frequency with which you play to the specific tuning services your piano needs. In this introduction, we'll explore the expected expenses and discuss why investing in a professional tuner is a smart choice for maintaining your piano performance. Factors Affecting the Cost of a Piano Tuner The price of hiring a tuner can vary based on multiple aspects. These include the type of piano you own, how long it has been since the last tuning, and any additional maintenance that might be needed. Here are some of the common factors that can influence the cost: Type of Piano Different types of pianos require different levels of expertise and time to tune. For example, grand pianos generally take longer to tune than upright pianos due to their size and string tension. This extra time can influence the final cost of the service. On average, a basic tuning session might cost between $100 and $200, but grand pianos may be on the higher end of that spectrum. Frequency of Use It may require more frequent tuning if a piano is used frequently—especially in professional settings like concert halls or music studios. A heavily used piano might need tuning several times yearly to maintain its optimal sound. Regular tuning sessions tend to cost less than one-time tune-ups for pianos that haven’t been maintained over a long period. Condition of the Piano The condition of your piano also impacts the overall cost. If your instrument has not been tuned in several years, it may require a pitch raise and preliminary tuning to get closer to its correct pitch. This complex process can add $50 to $100 to the usual tuning fee. Additional Repairs Sometimes, tuning alone isn't enough. If your piano needs repairs—such as fixing sticky keys, replacing strings, or addressing soundboard issues—these will increase the overall expense. While some repairs are minor, others, like replacing strings, can be more costly, ranging from $50 for minor adjustments to several hundred dollars for more significant repairs. Average Costs for a Piano Tuner in Tampa Generally, you can pay between $100 and $200 for a standard piano tuning. This price typically covers one visit and one tuning session. The complexity of the tuning job and the time spent can shift this range slightly. For instance, a simple touch-up on a regularly maintained piano could be closer to the $100 mark, while an entire tuning session on a grand piano may edge closer to $200. A pitch raise may add an extra $50 to the total cost, making a comprehensive tuning session with a pitch adjustment fall between $150 and... --- - Published: 2024-09-11 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/09/11/diy-piano-tuning-is-it-worth-the-hassle/ A well-tuned piano is essential for producing beautiful music. But when the keys start to sound off, you’re faced with a decision: Should you try to tune the piano yourself or hire a professional piano tuner? This question often arises for piano owners in Tampa, especially when considering costs, convenience, and the desire for a hands-on approach. In this article, we’ll analyze the pros and cons of DIY piano tuning, the tools required, the skills involved, and the potential risks to help you determine whether this route is worth exploring. Tools You’ll Need for DIY Piano Tuning If you decide to tune your piano yourself, you’ll need the right tools to get the job done. Here are the basic supplies: Tuning Hammer: This specialized tool is essential for adjusting the tuning pins. It’s important to get a high-quality one to avoid damaging the pins. Electronic Tuner or Tuning App: While tuning by ear is the gold standard for professionals, most DIYers will need an electronic tuner or app to adjust each note accurately. Mutes: These rubber wedges silence strings while tuning individual ones, particularly on pianos with multiple strings per note. Tuning Fork (Optional): For those who prefer a traditional method, a tuning fork can serve as a reference pitch to calibrate your tuning. Skills Required for DIY Piano Tuning Tuning a piano is not the same as tightening a guitar string; it’s a much more complex process. Multiple strings produce each note in a piano; adjusting these strings to the correct tension is delicate. The skills required for DIY piano tuning include: Patience and Precision: Tuning 88 keys (and more if multiple strings per note) can be time-consuming. The slightest over-adjustment can throw off the entire pitch. A Good Ear for Music: While you can use an electronic tuner, having a good ear will help you fine-tune the instrument to perfection. Basic Mechanical Knowledge: Pianos are intricate instruments, and knowing how to handle them without damaging them is crucial. These skills are necessary for DIY piano tuning to produce satisfactory results or costly repairs. Pros of DIY Piano Tuning Cost Savings: One of the biggest draws of DIY piano tuning is the potential savings. A professional piano tuner in Tampa may charge between $100 to $200 per tuning session, depending on the piano's condition and whether any repairs are needed. Doing it yourself can save you money, especially if you have to tune the piano frequently. Hands-on Satisfaction: Tuning your piano can be a rewarding experience for music enthusiasts or DIYers. A certain sense of pride comes from working on your instrument and getting the tuning just right. Convenience: If you’re comfortable with the process, tuning your piano at home eliminates the need to schedule appointments with a professional piano tuner, allowing you to work on your own time. Cons of DIY Piano Tuning High Risk of Damage: Pianos are delicate instruments, and improper tuning can result in serious damage. Over-tightening a string can cause it to break, and... --- - Published: 2024-08-13 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/08/13/how-to-find-the-perfect-piano-tuner-a-guide-for-piano-owners/ Your piano is more than just a musical instrument; it’s an investment, a piece of art, and often a cherished part of your home. Keeping it in optimal condition requires regular maintenance, and finding the right tuner in Tampa is essential to ensure your instrument sounds its best. This guide will walk you through the steps to find the perfect piano tuner for your needs. Step 1: Understanding the Importance of a Skilled Piano Tuner A well-tuned piano not only sounds better but also extends the instrument's lifespan. Tuning involves adjusting the tension of the strings to ensure that each note is in perfect harmony. A skilled piano tuner does more than tune; they assess the overall health of your piano, checking for issues that could affect its performance. Regular tuning is crucial, especially if the piano is used frequently or exposed to changes in temperature and humidity, which are common in the Tampa area. Step 2: Research and Recommendations Start your search by asking for recommendations from trusted sources. Piano teachers, music schools, and fellow piano owners in Tampa can often point you to a reliable tuner. Online reviews and testimonials are also valuable resources. Look for a tuner with a track record of professionalism, punctuality, and quality work. Step 3: Check Credentials While a formal certification is not always required, it can signify professionalism and dedication. The Piano Technicians Guild (PTG) offers certification to tuners who have demonstrated a high level of skill and knowledge. Choosing a certified piano tuner gives you peace of mind that you’re working with someone who has been vetted by a reputable organization. Step 4: Evaluate Experience Experience matters when it comes to piano tuning. Ask potential tuners about their experience with your specific type of piano, whether upright, grand, or digital. A tuner who has worked with various pianos will be more adept at handling any unique challenges your instrument might present. Step 5: Understand the Tuning Process A good piano tuner will take the time to explain their process to you. This might include discussing the frequency of tuning needed based on your piano’s age, usage, and environment. They should also be able to identify and explain any additional repairs or maintenance that might be necessary. Step 6: Request a Quote Before scheduling a tuning, request a detailed quote. This should include the cost of the tuning itself, as well as any potential additional costs for repairs or adjustments. Be wary of prices significantly lower than the average, as this might indicate inexperience or a lack of proper tools. A quality piano tuner invests in good tools and ongoing education, reflected in their pricing. Step 7: Observe the First Tuning The first time a piano tuner works on your instrument, take the opportunity to observe their work. A professional tuner will be methodical, patient, and attentive to detail. They should also be open to answering any questions you have about the process. This initial experience will give you a sense of... --- - Published: 2024-07-09 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/07/09/how-often-should-you-tune-your-piano/ The art of piano tuning is a meticulous process that ensures a piano produces the harmonious sound it was designed to create. Whether you own an acoustic upright or a grand piano, regular tuning is necessary to maintain its sound quality. If you're in Tampa and wondering how often you should tune your piano, there are several factors to consider. Pianos are complex instruments with numerous components made from wood and metal, materials sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. These environmental changes can cause the wooden parts to expand or contract and the metal strings to stretch, affecting the tension and making the piano go out of tune. The humid subtropical climate in Tampa can be particularly challenging for pianos, making regular tuning even more critical. A new piano is recommended to be tuned four times during its first year. This frequency is necessary because new pianos undergo a "settling-in period," during which the strings stretch and the wooden parts adjust to the tension. Regular tuning during this initial period helps stabilize the piano, ensuring it remains in optimal condition. After the first year, the general recommendation is to tune your piano twice a year. This biannual schedule is based on the typical seasonal changes that affect a piano's tuning stability. In Tampa, where the climate can vary significantly between the wet and dry seasons, this frequency helps maintain the instrument’s pitch and tone quality. However, the ideal tuning frequency can vary based on how often and intensively the piano is used. For instance, pianos used in concert halls, recording studios, or by professional musicians may require tuning before every performance or recording session. This ensures the instrument is perfectly in tune for optimal sound quality. In contrast, a piano in a home setting, played occasionally, might maintain its tuning for longer but still benefit from biannual tuning to counteract environmental effects. Another factor influencing tuning frequency is the quality and age of the piano. Older pianos or those not maintained regularly may need more frequent tuning to stay in pitch. Conversely, high-quality, well-maintained pianos might retain tuning stability for longer periods. Regular maintenance, including tuning, helps prolong the instrument's life and maintains its sound quality. In addition to regular tuning, it is also advisable to have your piano inspected and serviced by a professional technician. During these visits, the technician can address any potential issues that may affect the piano's performance, such as loose pins, worn hammers, or issues with the action. Regular maintenance ensures that the piano remains in excellent condition and performs reliably. Living in Tampa, taking extra precautions to protect your piano from the humid climate is beneficial. Using a piano dehumidifier can help control the moisture levels within the piano, reducing the impact of humidity fluctuations. Additionally, placing the piano away from direct sunlight, windows, and air vents can minimize exposure to temperature and humidity changes, further preserving its tuning stability. The importance of regular piano tuning extends beyond just maintaining pitch. It also... --- - Published: 2024-06-04 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/06/04/how-to-fix-sticky-piano-keys/ Sticky piano keys are a common issue that can significantly affect the playability and enjoyment of your instrument. Understanding the causes of sticky keys and how to fix them is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your piano. In Tampa, where humidity levels can be high, this problem can be particularly prevalent. This article will explore the causes of sticky piano keys and provide a step-by-step guide to addressing this issue, ensuring your piano repair efforts are effective and long-lasting. The first step in addressing sticky piano keys is understanding the potential causes. One of the most common reasons for sticky keys is humidity. In humid climates like Tampa, the wood and felt components within the piano can swell, leading to increased friction and keys that do not return to their resting position promptly. This swelling can affect the wooden key sticks, bushings, and other parts of the piano action, making the keys feel sluggish or stuck. Another potential cause is debris or dirt accumulation. Over time, dust, crumbs, and other small particles can find their way into the piano’s action, creating obstructions that prevent keys from moving smoothly. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent this buildup, but a more thorough cleaning may be necessary once the keys are already sticking. Mechanical issues can also lead to sticky keys. For example, worn or misaligned parts within the piano’s action can create friction points. Additionally, if the key bushings—small felt-lined holes through which the balance and guide pins pass—become worn or compressed, they can cause the keys to stick. Once you understand the potential causes of sticky keys, you can begin addressing the issue. Start by examining the affected keys and the surrounding area for visible debris. If you notice any foreign objects, carefully remove them using a soft brush or a vacuum with a hose attachment. Be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate components inside the piano. If cleaning does not resolve the issue, the next step is to check the humidity levels in your home or the room where the piano is. Using a hygrometer, measure the humidity and ensure it is within the recommended range for pianos, typically between 40% and 50%. In Tampa, where humidity can often exceed these levels, consider using a dehumidifier in the room or investing in a piano climate control system. These systems help maintain a stable internal environment for the piano, reducing the risk of swelling and sticking keys. For more stubborn cases, where cleaning and humidity control do not solve the problem, you may need to lubricate the key bushings. This process requires a special lubricant designed for pianos, which you can apply sparingly to the bushings. Be cautious not to over-lubricate, as excess lubricant can attract dust and create new problems. If you are unsure about this step, consult a professional piano technician who can perform the task accurately. If mechanical wear or misalignment is the cause of the sticky keys, professional intervention will likely be necessary.... --- - Published: 2024-04-29 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/04/29/the-science-of-piano-tuning-acoustics-physics-and-the-art-of-perfect-sound/ Piano tuning is a fascinating blend of art and science. Producing a harmonious sound requires a deep understanding of the instrument's acoustics and physics. For any piano tuner, especially those in bustling music scenes like Tampa, mastering these principles is essential to enhancing the performance and longevity of this beloved instrument. The Foundation of Piano Sound: Strings and Soundboards At its core, a piano produces sound through strings stretched over a soundboard. When a key is pressed, a hammer strikes one or more strings, causing them to vibrate. These vibrations are transferred to the soundboard, which amplifies them and creates the rich, resonant tones we associate with the piano. The precise length, tension, and mass of each string determine the pitch of the notes they produce. This is where the physics of sound waves plays a crucial role. The Role of Harmonics in Piano Tuning One of the critical concepts in piano tuning is understanding harmonics or overtones. These are higher-frequency sounds produced when a string vibrates, in addition to the fundamental frequency. Each string produces a series of harmonics that are integral to the character of the piano’s sound. When tuning a piano, a tuner listens not only for the fundamental pitch but also for these harmonics to align perfectly across all the strings. This alignment is crucial because it affects the timbre and richness of the sound. If the harmonics are not correctly aligned, the piano will sound out of tune, even if the fundamental frequencies are correct. This is particularly challenging in a humid city like Tampa, where wood can swell and contract, subtly altering the tension and, thus, the piano's tuning over time. Temperament and Tuning Systems Piano tuning also involves choosing the right temperament or tuning system. Historically, tuners used just intonation based on pure harmonic ratios, but this system did not allow instruments to change keys smoothly. Modern pianos typically use equal temperament, where the octave is divided into twelve equal steps. This allows for consistent tuning across all keys, which is especially important for versatile performance demands, such as those faced by pianists in Tampa’s diverse music venues. A piano tuner uses sophisticated tools and techniques to adjust the tension of each piano string to achieve this equal temperament. This process requires not only an understanding of the physical properties of the strings but also an ear trained to detect minute differences in pitch and tone. The Impact of Physics: String Tension and Length The physics behind string tension and length is another critical aspect of piano tuning. The tension of a string must be precisely controlled to produce the correct pitch. This tension is adjusted by turning the tuning pins, which can be a delicate process. If the tension is too high, the string may break; if it's too low, the note will sound flat. Additionally, the length and thickness of the strings affect their tension and, consequently, the pitch. Bass strings, for instance, are thicker and longer, requiring different tuning considerations... --- - Published: 2024-03-25 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/03/25/preparing-for-a-piano-tuning-appointment/ If you're a piano owner in Tampa, FL, you understand the importance of regular piano tuning to ensure your instrument always sounds its best. Whether it's the humid Florida weather affecting your piano's soundboard or the normal wear and tear of the strings, scheduling a tuning appointment is crucial for maintaining the quality of your piano's sound. It's essential to prepare your instrument and the space around it. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you get ready for a piano tuning appointment. 1. Schedule Your Tuning at the Right Time: The weather can greatly affect your piano's tuning in Tampa. It's best to schedule your tuning during a stable weather period, avoiding the most humid months if possible. This stability helps ensure the tuning holds better. 2. Clear the Area Around the Piano: Provide easy access to your piano by removing any furniture, rugs, or objects that might be in the way. Piano tuners need space to move around and place their tools. This is also a good time to dust your piano and the area around it. 3. Remove Objects from the Piano: Ensure the top of the piano and the keyboard cover are clear of any items. Photographs, vases, or any decorative items should be removed. This not only provides the tuner with unobstructed access but also protects your belongings. 4. Check the Room’s Temperature and Humidity: Ideally, the room where the piano is located should have a consistent temperature and moderate humidity level. In Tampa's climate, using a dehumidifier can help maintain a stable environment for your piano, especially during the summer months. 5. Inform Household Members: Let everyone in your home know about the tuning appointment. Piano tuning requires quiet and concentration, so it's best to schedule it at a time when there is minimal noise and disturbance. 6. Prepare Any Questions or Concerns: If you've noticed any issues with your piano, such as sticky keys or unusual sounds, make a note to discuss these with your tuner. Providing this information upfront can help the tuner address your concerns more effectively. 7. Accessibility: Ensure there’s convenient parking and access to your home for the piano tuner. If your piano is upstairs or in a hard-to-reach area, inform the tuner beforehand. 8. Payment Preparation: Be ready to make payment once the service is completed. Knowing the payment methods accepted by your piano tuner can help smooth the process. 9. Consider Additional Services: If you think your piano may need more than just tuning, such as regulation or voice, mention this when scheduling your appointment. Many tuners can provide these additional services, but they may require more time. By following this checklist, you can ensure that your piano tuning appointment goes smoothly, allowing your instrument to sound its best. Regular tuning not only enhances your playing experience but also prolongs the life of your piano, ensuring it can be enjoyed for generations to come. Remember, a well-tuned piano can transform your music, bringing out the beauty and depth... --- - Published: 2024-02-28 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/02/28/understanding-different-types-of-pianos-variations-in-piano-tuning/ Piano tuning is an art that delicately balances science and craftsmanship. The process of tuning varies depending on the type of piano, each with its unique structure and sound qualities. In this article, we will explore how piano tuning in Tampa differs between grand, upright, and electronic pianos and why these distinctions are important for piano owners to understand. Grand Pianos: The Concert Hall's Choice Grand pianos, revered for their rich tonal quality and aesthetic appeal, are commonly found in concert halls and music studios. When it comes to piano tuning, grand pianos present a unique challenge due to their size and complex string layout. The strings of a grand piano are longer, which allows for a broader range of sound and dynamic expression. This also means that they are more sensitive to environmental changes such as humidity and temperature, making regular tuning a necessity. During the piano tuning process, the tuner adjusts the tension of each string to achieve the correct pitch. This is done using a tuning lever or hammer, and it requires a keen ear and an understanding of the intricate relationship between the strings. The bass strings, being thicker and wound with copper, tend to lose their pitch more quickly and may require more frequent attention. Upright Pianos: The Household Favorite Upright pianos, while more compact, are no less sophisticated in their need for precise tuning. One of the main differences in piano tuning for uprights compared to grand pianos is the vertical orientation of their strings and the action mechanism. This structure can lead to different patterns of wear and tuning instability. In upright pianos, the space constraints mean that the strings are shorter and the soundboard is smaller, which affects how the sound resonates. Tuners must be mindful of these differences and adjust their technique accordingly. Upright pianos often require a more frequent tuning schedule, especially in environments with significant seasonal climate changes, as their compact structure is more susceptible to humidity and temperature fluctuations. Electronic Pianos: A Modern Twist Electronic pianos, though not requiring traditional piano tuning, still demand a form of maintenance to ensure their sound quality remains high. These instruments use digital samples and electrically generated tones to mimic the sound of acoustic pianos. However, they can experience issues such as software glitches, speaker problems, or key sensitivity issues that can affect their performance. While electronic pianos don't have strings to tune, they may require recalibration of their keyboard action or adjustments to their electronic components. Regular maintenance by a professional can ensure that the touch and response of the keys remain consistent and the electronic components function correctly. The Importance of Regular Piano Tuning Regardless of the type of piano, regular tuning is crucial. It not only maintains the instrument's sound quality but also its health and longevity. Piano tuning should be seen as a routine check-up, similar to how one would care for a car or a home. For acoustic pianos, tuning at least twice a year is recommended,... --- - Published: 2024-01-31 - Modified: 2024-01-31 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2024/01/31/the-grand-piano-more-than-just-an-instrument/ The grand piano, a symbol of sophistication and musical prowess, stands out in the world of musical instruments for its exceptional qualities. Its grandeur is not just in its size but in its rich sound, responsive touch, and artistic presence. Rich, Full-Bodied Sound One of the most defining features of a grand piano is its rich, full-bodied sound. This superior sound quality is attributed to the larger soundboard and longer strings found in grand pianos. These components allow for a broader range of tones, from deep, resonant basses to bright, clear trebles. This richness in sound makes grand pianos particularly favored for concert performances and professional recordings. Enhanced Touch Sensitivity The action mechanism in a grand piano is more sophisticated compared to upright pianos. This results in a more natural and responsive touch, giving pianists better control over dynamics and expression. In grand pianos, the action works with gravity, allowing for faster key repetition and more nuanced control over each note. Pedal Nuances Grand pianos often feature three pedals, including the sustain pedal, the sostenuto pedal, and the soft pedal. Each pedal provides unique effects that can be manipulated more readily than in upright pianos. The sustain pedal, in particular, is crucial for holding notes and creating a legato effect, which is essential in many pieces of music. Aesthetic and Symbolic Significance The grandeur of a grand piano extends beyond its musical capabilities to its aesthetic presence. It's a symbol of elegance and often the centerpiece in concert halls, music conservatories, and upscale homes. The grand piano's design, with its iconic curved side and glossy finish, adds an artistic element to any space. Versatility in Musical Expression Grand pianos are versatile in their ability to accommodate various musical genres, from classical and jazz to modern compositions. Their dynamic range and tonal quality make them suitable for solo performances, chamber music, and accompaniment in larger ensembles. Longevity and Investment Value Grand pianos are not only musical instruments but also investments. They are built with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, often lasting for decades with proper maintenance. Many grand pianos also retain or increase in value over time, making them a worthwhile investment for serious musicians and collectors. Educational and Professional Advantages For students and professionals, practicing on a grand piano offers significant advantages. The responsive action and tonal qualities of a grand piano provide a more comprehensive learning experience. This prepares pianists for performances on concert stages, where grand pianos are the standard. Conclusion In conclusion, the grandeur of a grand piano is not merely in its physical presence but also in the sublime quality of music it produces. For those in the Tampa area looking to maintain the majestic sound of their grand piano, Tampa Piano Tuning offers unparalleled expertise. With a commitment to excellence in every tuning, cleaning, and maintenance service, Tampa Piano Tuning ensures your grand piano continues to resonate with rich, full-bodied sound, maintaining its legacy as a centerpiece of musical artistry and elegance. Trust Tampa Piano Tuning... --- - Published: 2023-12-13 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/12/13/comprehensive-guide-to-piano-longevity/ Introduction In the world of pianos, age is more than just a number. It is a testament to the instrument's journey through time, reflecting its use, care, and environmental exposure history. At Tampa Piano Tuning, we delve into the intricate relationship between a piano's age and its performance, offering insights to those considering the purchase of a used piano or seeking to preserve their current instrument through expert piano tuning in Tampa. Understanding the Aging Process of Pianos 1. Impact of Usage on Piano Longevity - High-Usage Scenarios: Pianos subjected to intensive use, such as those in music institutions, exhibit accelerated wear. High-level players practicing several hours daily can significantly reduce a piano's lifespan. Regular piano tuning in Tampa can mitigate some of these effects. - Moderate to Low Usage: Pianos in homes or less demanding settings, experiencing gentler and less frequent use, age more gracefully, retaining their quality over extended periods. 2. Environmental Factors in Piano Aging - Adverse Conditions: Exposure to extreme conditions like humidity, temperature fluctuations, and direct sunlight can drastically affect a piano's condition, leading to issues like warping, rusting, and deterioration of internal components. - Ideal Environment: Maintaining a stable, controlled environment minimizes the risk of environmental damage, thus preserving the piano's integrity and sound quality over time. 3. The Inevitability of Decomposition - Natural Wear and Tear: Regardless of usage and environment, all pianos undergo a natural decomposition process. Materials like felt and leather harden and degrade, affecting the instrument's touch and tone. - Preventative Measures: Regular maintenance, including piano tuning in Tampa, and appropriate storage conditions can slow down this process, ensuring the piano remains in a playable and enjoyable condition for longer. The Lifespan of a Piano: A Timeline - 0-10 Years: Pianos in this age range, especially well-maintained ones, often retain a 'like new' feel and performance. - 10-20 Years: Depending on usage and environment, these pianos may show signs of wear but generally remain in excellent condition. - 30 Years: At this stage, the differences in touch and sound become more noticeable, especially in heavily used instruments. - 40-50 Years: This age marks a significant shift in a piano's condition, with visible signs of wear and potential degradation in performance. - 60+ Years: Pianos in this category often enter the 'vintage' realm, with noticeable changes in touch, tone, and overall character, even in well-maintained instruments. Best Practices for Piano Care and Maintenance - Location: Choosing an appropriate and stable location within the home is crucial. - Regular Cleaning and Servicing: Using quality products and scheduling regular tuning and servicing, particularly piano tuning in Tampa, can significantly extend a piano's lifespan. - Avoiding Damaging Factors: Protecting the piano from environmental harm, impacts, and misuse is essential for preserving its condition. Conclusion In conclusion, the enduring quality and performance of a piano are highly dependent on expert care and regular tuning. For those in the Tampa area, Phil Frohna's Piano Tuning offers professional services that ensure your instrument remains a source of... --- - Published: 2023-11-27 - Modified: 2023-11-27 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/11/27/how-to-determine-if-your-piano-is-out-of-tune/ When exploring the field of piano tuning, one soon dispels the myth that having a broad musical experience makes evaluating a piano's tuning simple. This article uses a series of tests and questions to examine the subtleties of determining whether a piano is out of tune. We'll look into the main telltale signs that indicate a piano needs to be tuned, from the overall sound quality to the accuracy of particular notes and chords. Tests to Tell if a Piano is Out of Tune: Question 1: Does the Piano Sound Bad? The first step is to assess the piano's overall sound quality. Play a scale, a composition you are familiar with, and random notes while thinking about adjectives like tinny, sour, harsh, flat, twangy, impure, or cringy. The piano probably needs to be tuned if any of these descriptions fit the instrument. Test 2: Do the A's match the A 440 Tuning System? Check to see if the A above middle C follows the A 440 tuning scheme by using a tuning app. Make sure that the A below is half the frequency and the A one octave higher is approximately double the A 440 frequency. It's important to read the piano consistently because deviations could mean the instrument is in tune with the A 440 system but not with itself. Test 3: Are Single Notes In Tune with Themselves? To detect twangy notes, which may suggest a note is out of harmony with itself, play a basic scale. When holding a key, pay attention to the richness, consistency, and any pitch changes in the tone. Test 4: Are Octaves In Tune with Themselves? Determine whether notes played together in octaves sound harmonious. Play a falling G major scale and Gs below and above middle C. A problem with the piano's intonation may be indicated by notes that don't blend. Test 5: Do Major Chords Sound Pure? Try several registers for major chords, and listen to if they sound clear, sweet, harmonious, or pure. The notes in certain chords are probably out of tune if those chords sound sour or dirty. What Causes a Piano to Go Out of Tune? For maintenance purposes, it is essential to understand the reasons for piano detuning. A piano may become out of tune due to many factors, such as excessive use, changes in humidity or temperature, jostling during transit, natural aging, and incorrect positioning. How Often Does a Piano Need Tuned? While concert pianos may be tuned daily, regular residential instruments are normally recommended to be tuned every six months. Frequent tuning preserves the pitch of the piano and averts more serious problems. Can you play an out-of-tune piano? There are drawbacks to playing on an out-of-tune piano, yet it is feasible. Prolonged use may exacerbate detuning, requiring multiple tunings to restore proper pitch. Extended periods of neglected piano care could result in more piano repairs. Concluding Remarks Keeping one's piano in a harmonic state demonstrates one's devotion to both personal fulfillment and... --- - Published: 2023-10-03 - Modified: 2023-10-03 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/10/03/selecting-a-keyboard-or-a-grand-piano-for-beginners/ Any beginner to learning a grand piano is going to need a good instrument. If you wish to get a grand piano for your child, it might not be necessary to get a baby grand piano. In this article, we will tell you about deciding the right piano for your budget. Let's find out about ways of selecting a piano for beginners. You can find three basic categories of piano keyboard instruments. The biggest and the most expensive piano is an acoustic piano. But there are some good digital pianos out there as well that are less expensive and smaller. Acoustic Pianos: The sooner any student can practice an acoustic piano, the better off he will be. The usual price range for a high-quality acoustic piano varies between $4000 to $ 10,000 or even more. In case you are looking to get a grand piano, you can typically expect to spend between $6000 to $ 10,000. There are several good brands available for buying a grand piano or an upright piano. Some of them include Yamaha, Boston, Kawai, and Schimmel. If you are not sure about buying the right instrument for beginners, you can also find some affordable rental programs online, but be sure that piano tuning has been proper and the keys are in good working stead. A grand piano in poor condition will only add to frustration. Digital Pianos: Although it is a good idea to opt for a grand piano for beginners, you can also consider getting a digital piano for beginners. These machines are designed to feel and sound like the real thing as much as possible. They have keys that provide the requisite resistance to touch and are sensitive to pressure and speed, allowing good dynamics. The top companies selling the digital pianos are Yamaha and Casio. It is okay to get digital pianos if the pocket doesn’t permit getting an acoustic piano. In fact, a good digital piano might be a better alternative than some out-of-tune grand piano with broken and sticky keys. Electronic keyboards: Using electronic keyboards is an affordable way of getting started. However, learning piano with a non-full-size, non-weight beginner keyboard is not an ideal alternative. So, to avoid this far-from-ideal experience, it is recommended that you get at least a digital piano if you are a beginner. But if you are not keen to spend big amounts involved in getting a baby grand piano or a digital piano, you can consider getting an electronic keyboard. These electronic keyboards come in different prices and sizes. There are many advantages to using a digital piano or electronic keyboard, but for beginners, nothing compares to a grand piano. If you live in the Tampa, FL, area and have enough space in your home, consider getting an acoustic piano. If you already own a piano and require piano tuning services, contact Tampa Piano Tuning for expert assistance. Keep in mind that a high-quality acoustic piano can help you develop excellent musicianship skills right from... --- - Published: 2023-09-20 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/09/20/essential-piano-guidelines-for-beginners/ Embarking on the journey of learning the piano is an exhilarating adventure that offers both challenges and rewards. Over the years, countless piano enthusiasts have faced a diverse range of situations and challenges. The success stories of many accomplished pianists often highlight the importance of foundational strategies they diligently embraced from the outset. For newcomers to the world of piano, understanding and adhering to these fundamental guidelines can be the cornerstone of their musical journey, setting the stage for mastery in the vast ocean of piano education, where a plethora of techniques and resources beckon, it's crucial to remember that honing in on the basics often yields the most impactful and lasting results. For those eager to embark on this musical voyage, presented below are essential, time-tested tips and insights tailored for aspiring pianists, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching learning experience. 1. Seek a Qualified Instructor: While the internet is brimming with tutorials and lessons, nothing compares to personalized guidance from a skilled teacher. They can offer tailored advice, spot your mistakes, and guide you through the nuances of techniques. 2. Choose Music You Love: With a vast array of compositions available, it's essential to select pieces that resonate with you. Playing music you're passionate about can enhance your motivation and connection to the piece. 3. Balance Technique and Passion: While technique books are valuable, don't get too engrossed in them. Integrate them into your practice, but also focus on the music's emotion and story. 4. Showcase Your Skills: Don't hesitate to perform in front of friends or family. Sharing your progress can boost your confidence and provide valuable feedback. 5. Break Down Your Pieces: Segmenting your music into smaller sections can make it more digestible and less intimidating. 6. Tune Into Piano Music: Listening to various pianists can offer inspiration and insights into different interpretations of pieces. 7. Prioritize Slow Practice: Playing slowly can enhance accuracy and evenness and help identify minor errors. 8. Consider Investing in a Grand Piano: While it might seem like a significant investment, the tactile experience of a grand piano can greatly benefit your technique and expression. 9. Grasp the Basics of Music Theory: Understanding the underlying theory can deepen your connection to the music and enhance your interpretative skills. 10. Commit Pieces to Memory: Internalizing your music allows for a more profound emotional connection and expressive performance. 11. Hone Your Sight-Reading Skills: Regularly practicing sight-reading can expedite the learning process for new pieces. 12. Maintain Proper Posture: Proper posture ensures comfort and effective technique, preventing potential injuries. Make Sure Your Piano is Professionally Tuned If you live in or near Tampa, FL, it's important to keep your piano sounding great. That's where Phil Frohna's Tampa Piano Tuning comes in. Phil is a third-generation piano tuner and technician with roots in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He has been perfecting his craft since his father and grandfather passed it down to him and has been serving the Tampa Bay area since 1992. Phil offers a range of... --- - Published: 2023-08-23 - Modified: 2023-08-23 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/08/23/piano-tuning-equipment-and-tools/ The art of piano tuning is a delicate blend of precision, artistry, and science. Every piano, from the elegant grand pianos adorning concert halls to the cherished uprights in family living rooms, deserves the utmost care in tuning to preserve its tonal beauty and ensure longevity. At the core of this meticulous process is an array of specialized tools and equipment. In this article, we delve into the essentials of piano tuning equipment and how they are used to bring pianos to perfect pitch every time. 1. Tuning Lever (or Hammer): This is the primary tool in any tuner's kit. Resembling a long-handled socket wrench, the tuning lever allows technicians to adjust the piano's tuning pins, which in turn changes the tension of the strings and alters the pitch. The lever's length provides the necessary leverage to turn the pin, while its specialized tip ensures a snug fit to prevent any damage. 2. Mutes: Tuning a piano is all about isolating individual strings to ensure they produce the desired tone. Mutes, made of rubber or felt, are wedged between strings to silence them temporarily. This helps the technician to hear and adjust one string at a time, even in chords where multiple strings produce a single note. 3. Electronic Tuning Device (ETD): In today's digital age, many technicians use ETDs to provide a precise pitch reference. While the human ear remains invaluable in the tuning process, ETDs can offer quick and accurate readings, especially in challenging environments or during initial rough tunings. 4. Temperament Strip: This long, narrow piece of felt is used to mute all the outside strings in one section of the piano, enabling the tuner to work on the central strings without interference. Once the middle strings are tuned, the temperament strip is removed to tune the remaining strings to match. 5. Aural Tuning Forks: Before the advent of digital tools, tuning forks were the go-to reference for pitch. Many technicians still prefer them, especially for aural (by ear) tuning. When struck, the fork vibrates at a specific frequency, providing a reference note for tuning. 6. Piano Tuning Software: Modern piano technicians might use specialized software in conjunction with microphones to analyze the piano's sound spectrum. This technology can assist in fine-tuning, particularly in pianos with complex tonal characteristics. 7. Inspection Mirrors and Lights: Given the piano's intricate interior, having a good line of sight is crucial. Small mirrors mounted on handles and specialized lighting tools help technicians inspect hard-to-see areas inside the instrument. Every piano is unique, with its own character and history. Using these essential tools, skilled technicians like those at TampaPianoTuning. com ensure that each instrument sings in perfect harmony, providing joy and inspiration to listeners. A Symphony of Perfection with Phil Frohna Piano Tuning If your piano needs the precise touch of expert hands and the precision of top-tier tuning tools, look no further than Phil Frohna Piano Tuning. Serving Tampa, FL, and its environs, our team is dedicated to the art and... --- - Published: 2023-07-17 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/07/17/advantages-of-tuning-your-piano/ Regularly performing piano tuning has numerous advantages. This regular piano tuning allows you to enjoy piano and maintain the instrument in good condition. It also allows you to identify the issues in the early stages. You can take help from experts to provide ideal piano tuning services that will meet your specific expectations and requirements. Let's look at some of the advantages of playing piano regularly. It affects the sound quality: Maintaining the piano in a tuned condition will have a significant effect on the quality of the sound of a piano. If you can take the steps for piano tuning, you will get a better sound quality. This will help you enhance your confidence in playing piano, and it will also provide better sound quality. It will also help in enhancing your confidence in piano playing and also improve your enjoyment. If you can get your piano tuned regularly, you will have to ensure that it will sound better. It will help in maintaining the value of the piano: If you allow the instrument to fall out of tune, the string tension will not be of the required level. It can cause the strings to affect the piano. Although this damage is normally reversible, piano tuning many times tends to be a more effective approach for maintaining it in condition. If you can tune the instrument and also maintain it in good condition, you can get a much better value than a piano that is not tuned regularly. It helps in minimizing repair expenses and prevents replacing the piano prematurely. Improve string longevity: Strings have a tendency to wear down over some time, and it causes them to be replaced prematurely. If you can tune the piano regularly, you can ensure that its internal mechanisms are utilized regularly. It will help in making sure that this wear gets identified in the early stages. It is significant to understand the condition of your piano, which will help in taking appropriate steps to make sure that the instrument stays in the best possible shape. Piano tuning is a kind of preventive maintenance activity that helps in making sure that the strings are replaced when there is a sign of wear. Piano tuning helps in saving money: Getting repairs done to the piano is expensive, and it depends on the severity of damage to the machine. Regular piano tuning is far less expensive than getting the repair done. When you are using these services, you will ensure that there is minimum damage to the machine. Apart from that, regular piano tuning ensures the piano technician can identify the possible damage that will otherwise affect the instrument. This many times enables you to perform more minor repairs before the damage extends higher. Consistency in practice is the key to advancement. By regularly engaging in piano practice, you'll significantly enhance your musicianship skills. The enjoyment you derive from playing the piano fuels your desire to persist in this routine, creating a positive cycle of... --- - Published: 2023-06-13 - Modified: 2023-06-13 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/06/13/learning-to-play-piano-is-it-hard/ Typically, the piano is the first musical instrument that individuals learn to play. However, learning to play piano might not be as easy as you think. To play piano proficiently, it takes years of practice and several hours of lessons. There is a long route involved in just playing a few notes and playing opposing melodies with both hands. Having said that, learning to play piano as your first instrument is a great thing. We will look at the challenges you will face while learning to play piano in this article. Why learning to play piano is so hard? 1. Doing complex movements and playing chords with the non-dominant hand: This is the first hurdle encountered when you are learning to play piano. Even when you are not using both hands at the same movement, you will need to train both hands. Even when you are a right-handed person using the left hand will prove to be challenging. 2. Reading music: Reading music fast can be a barrier for many students. However, when you are starting young, reading music can become your second language. But it is a difficult task for an adult learner. Although it is not too difficult to read the notes, it is a different proposition to place them on the piano with the correct rhythm. You need to start slow while learning to read music. 3. Playing by the ear: Playing by the ear is usually not very easy. It might be simpler while learning guitar but not so with the piano. There are several notes involved in piano, and there are many ways to play a C chord, for instance. You can pick a simple melody, but learning an entire piano piece by ear will take work. 4. Having to learn basic and boring songs: The hardest part while learning to play piano is that you have to start with some basic or boring songs. This can be frustrating for several learners. Although it is not something you imagine yourself playing, it is a part of the process. The good part, however, is that this will not continue for too long. Factors contributing to the process of learning to play piano 1. Using a teacher: The best and fastest way of learning to play piano is by using a good teacher. Many people teach themselves to play piano at home. Having a good teacher is a better idea than taking an online course. A good teacher will help in developing good habits. He can also help in getting rid of the bad ones. 2. Setting expectations: If you can take lessons and regularly practice using them for 12 months, you will learn to play piano and read music. You will be able to play some fundamental but cool-sounding songs and accompany them with your singing. Keep in mind that none of what you have learned will have any consequence if you do not know how you can put your music out there and earn money... --- - Published: 2023-05-16 - Modified: 2023-05-16 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/05/16/fine-tune-your-musical-masterpiece-with-integrated-piano-tuning/ The art of piano tuning is crucial to keep a piano in good condition, yet many people are confused as to how to do it perfectly. Jacques Coquelin, a piano manufacturer, concert technician, and tuning expert, was questioned about his experiences to help with the answers to these inquiries. Coquelin has prepared pianos for concerts by renowned performers, including Rubinstein, Aldo Ciccolini, Boris Berezovsky, Gabriel Taccino, and Michel Béroff, among others, and has worked with numerous priceless pianos. Coquelin discusses the differences between tuning and setting a piano, the reasons why two new acoustic pianos of the same brand and model might sound different, and how often pianos should be tuned. Selecting & Caring For The Soundboard According to Coquelin, the "soul" or soundboard of a piano is made of spruce or fir planks. These boards are carefully chosen, put together, and joined at the edges with glue. The bridge, which transfers the vibration of the strings, causes the table to vibrate. Part of the mechanical energy of the strings is converted into acoustic energy to perform its acoustic function. Bar tables support the soundboard, which emits sound waves that are dependent on the density of the wood. Due to this, two identical piano models from the same manufacturer and production line may have different resonance and tones. The sound of pianos can also vary depending on the density of the hammer felts. Each person has a different predilection for the sound that pianos generate, according to Coquelin. The Concept of Untuning Over Time Furthermore, according to Coquelin, the strain of the piano causes a physical phenomenon that causes pianos to gradually lose their tuning over time. Whether or not they are played, the excessively tight strings will eventually start to relax. Temperature and humidity levels both play a significant part in whether the piano remains in tune. Temperature fluctuations will make the de-tuning worse, especially in dry conditions or when there is active heating. It is highly advised to maintain a consistent relative humidity between 50 and 65% for a temperature between 18 and 21 °C, especially during the winter, to keep a piano in tune. How Often Should You Need Piano Tuning? Coquelin responds to the question of how frequently a piano should be tuned by saying that an acoustic piano should ideally be tuned four times a year, once for each change in season, for the reasons stated above. A piano need to be serviced at least twice a year, in the spring and the autumn. The frequency of use, however, can also affect how often a piano need to be tuned. For instance, a piano that is played six hours a day should be tuned once a month. Difference Between Piano Tuning By Ear & Instrument Coquelin further clarifies the distinction between tuning by instrument and tuning by ear. Although an electronic tuner can supply a piano with excellent precision, the human ear tends to mishear it. The tuner is finely tuned to the equal temperament... --- - Published: 2023-04-18 - Modified: 2023-04-18 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/04/18/difference-between-a-digital-piano-and-an-acoustic-piano/ Both pros and beginners would prefer to play on proper acoustic pianos. However, it is not just about piano tuning, and the digital counterpart has proved to be quite popular. When you are looking for a new piano, you will be wondering about piano tuning and where it is to be done. But selecting between an acoustic piano and digital piano can be a frustrating exercise for many people. They are different, but still, they share several attributes. There are some unique advantages associated with acoustic piano, but the modern digital piano also offers some impressive features making it a worthy competitor. Sound If you are looking for something that sounds like a piano, then either instrument will be fine for you. But, if you are a tone hound that looks for that perfect sound coming from the real piano, these digital pianos can be a disappointment. Digital pianos rely on modeling and sampling to produce a sound similar to a piano. Sometimes they even use a blend of these technologies. Yamaha has always preferred sampling, and Roland has gone the route of modeling. But even blind testing cannot easily tell the difference between the real thing and these high-end digital pianos. Budget Another equally significant factor is the budget. The piano instruments for beginners of the digital kind will not have the features offered by multi-speaker, refined systems that can be found in higher-end pianos. This will result in a sound that does not have depth, complexity, and richness. Even if you are on a limited budget, do not get put off by this assessment of cheap models. Even in the budget range, you can find some good products out there that can be extremely enjoyable to play with. But you cannot expect these machines to rival the top-end acoustic piano. Playability The cheap keyboards that come with plastic keys cannot produce a sound similar to a real piano. All the piano teachers will tell you to avoid using these machines. The real piano machines use incredibly complex and precise actions that have been developed for centuries to allow the pianists to play repetitive and quick passages dynamically. The key actions will grow progressively heavier when you move from treble notes onto the bass notes. All the keys will return immediately so that they may be struck again quickly. Maintenance If you install a digital piano, there is not too much maintenance activity you will need to perform. You can just dust the casing by using a soft cloth, and the machine will remain faithful without demanding attention. You will have to perform activities such as piano tuning for the acoustic pianos. You need to keep them away from rooms that are subject to heat, cold, dampness, sunlight, and humidity. You must not position the acoustic piano against a wall that is exposed to outside conditions. This can lead to condensation damage. So, the question now is which one is better digital or acoustic? The acoustic piano is a... --- - Published: 2023-03-21 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/03/21/selecting-a-suitable-piano-for-your-room/ Once you have decided to purchase a piano, you will be eagerly awaiting the several hours you will spend playing piano to bring pleasure to yourself and your family. However, these pianos are available in several shapes and sizes, making it tough to be aware of the right instrument to purchase. The most important considerations while buying a piano are its size, and the next one is its placement. Some other factors also affect the sound quality of the machine. Here are some easy guidelines that will not only be useful while playing piano but will help in deciding the right one for your space. Size of the room The size of the room is the most crucial factor in deciding the right machine for you. Larger the room, the larger the machine can be accommodated. Ideally, you should opt for the largest possible piano that can be accommodated in a room. But there are several strings attached to it. The greater surface area and more length of the strings in the case of larger pianos means a louder sound. But most non-professionals do not need larger machines for playing piano as their interests are leisurely. Disturbance to other members living in the house There is also the need to decide whether the other people living near the room will get disturbed when you are playing piano. This factor also depends on room treatment. If there is plenty of soft furniture within the room, such as easy chairs and sofas, or carpets and drapes, you will find that the sound created by the piano will be a lot softer as it will travel a short distance only. But if the room has little furniture and hardwood flooring and curtains, it will not absorb too much sound. Having a grand piano in such rooms might be a touch overbearing in this case. You might have to do with an upright piano for such rooms. Aesthetics Having said that, keep in mind that grand pianos many times have more pleasing aesthetics instead of the uprights. In case you are set on purchasing a grand piano and not willing to compromise for an upright one, and the room has sufficient space to accommodate the machine, you might wish to consider getting a baby grand piano. A smaller-sized grand piano rather than a full-sized model will be ideal. So, all things considered, a large grand piano might not be the right choice for a usual living room. There is a reason why they are called concert grands, as they are usually designed for a concert hall. You need to get your piano properly tuned periodically and protect it from unexpected climate changes that may harm the machine. For instance, never place the piano under direct sunlight. Although having the piano near the windows may appear to be aesthetically pleasing, the direct heat from the sun can damage the instrument. If you reside in Tampa, FL area and are looking to get your piano tuned,... --- - Published: 2023-02-21 - Modified: 2023-02-21 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2023/02/21/learn-music-theory-when-you-learn-piano/ Learning music theory is all about getting an in-depth understanding of the music you are looking to play. It provides an opportunity for what lies behind the music and how you can develop a specific effect for a music listener. Learning music theory allows you to learn a wide range of tools that can guide you as a musician. There is no need to dive deep into the piano theory when you learn piano. But there are many reasons why this can be a terrific idea. The piano theory covers the notes you will play and how you will play them. Here are some reasons why you need to learn music theory. 1. To understand the way it works: Consider a favorite song of yours. There is something about how the harmonies, melodies, and chords will work together to create something you enjoy. Learning piano theory allows you to break these elements down to understand how they work together. You will start to recognize them in other music pieces as you learn more. In case you are concentrating on classical music, the piano theory will help in unraveling pieces such as Sonatas that appear to be complex and long. 2. Boosting creativity: As some say, you need to know the rules before you can break them. Similar logic applies to all art forms. Writers will have to dig deep into their language to push the boundaries; filmmakers will study lighting and lenses. Music is not an exception to it. If you are aware of how some chord progresses and how textures and rhythms work, then it becomes possible to introduce them in your music. You may play around with them for owing them as they say. Above all, it helps in avoiding all the tropes that were committed many times earlier. 3. Uniting all the instruments: The piano is one of the instruments that allow solo musicians to perform authentic, full arrangements for a whole song. By using a piano, any solo player can recreate treble and bass clef with vocal melodies and more. It is tough to achieve this versatility and range by using other instruments. You will need a band or orchestra to replicate the richness and depth of the piano. Learning the piano theory not only makes you a better player, but it also provides a better understanding of all other instruments. If you learn music theory, you will find that similar principles apply to the flute, guitar, or trumpet. Broadly speaking, this is a new language that can be used for communication with yourself in the form of a memory aid and for other musicians to take yourself beyond the notations. Learning even small bits of music theory will go a long way when you learn piano. For instance, learning chord names allows you to communicate the combination of chords making up the song you wish to play. It also lets the rhythm, bass, and lead parts move together. If you have a piano in Tampa,... --- - Published: 2022-12-13 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/12/13/playing-piano-for-your-holiday-celebrations/ Holidays and music are an inseparable duo. There are very few things out there that can bring about the warmth of a holiday season more than the sound of a classic holiday song or a Christmas carol. One of the better ways of enjoying these tunes is by playing piano with your loved ones and friends at the holiday celebration. Here are some tips for incorporating some of the seasonal sounds into your holiday memories. Decorate the piano and tune it It is a fact that pianos are already quite beautiful on their own. However, if you decorate them for the holidays, they might become a focal point for everyone to see. You may consider creating a Christmas village over the top of the instrument, hanging a garland over it, wrapping it in lights, or providing a separate Christmas tree to it. If you have an out-of-tune instrument, it will easily take the wind out of all the holiday celebrations. Only a few sour notes can steal the cheer away from your room quickly. Ensure that you have it tuned perfectly for the holiday celebrations. Get a piano mover to place the machine at the center In case your machine is tucked away in a distant corner of your home, it is unlikely that you will be able to conduct the sing-along properly. This problem will persist even when the holiday celebrations are held in some other areas of the home. You must look to get the piano at the heart of all your celebrations. This means the music comes naturally, and the holiday celebrations are being performed in the piano room. You can use the services of a piano mover to relocate the piano. Get new sheet music and practice the songs You can find several books out there with holiday sheet music. In case you have been using the same older ones for many years now, it might be a good time to freshen up your repertoire with new ones. Having new songs will inspire you to rehearse them, and you can get your relatives to sing along. Another reason that can place a damper on your holiday celebrations is forgetting to play the tunes you have learned. Consider the songs you would like to play and then practice them thoroughly before the actual holiday celebrations. Keep it simple and add some other instruments In case you are an expert at playing piano, this tip might not apply to you. If you are somewhat of a lesser player, it might be a good idea to keep things relatively simple. The best way of doing this is not to overcomplicate the songs and try learning as many new songs as possible. Keep a solid list of tunes that everyone is aware of. The holiday season is all about looking for harmony. So, if you have some loved ones that can play some other instruments, get them to bring along those instruments and join the party. It is a great... --- - Published: 2022-11-15 - Modified: 2022-11-15 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/11/15/a-guide-for-cleaning-piano-keys/ It doesn’t matter what you do; your piano keys are inevitably going to get dirty at some point in time. Whether you play piano regularly or just occasionally, cleaning piano keys is necessary for making sure that the machine will last. Skin oils, dust, and dirt can get accumulated over the surface, and they may even get in between all the keys. This means you are looking at an unpleasant and sticky practice session. Before you get down to cleaning piano keys, keep in mind that the instrument cannot be treated like a table or a window during spring cleaning. Here are some tips you need to adhere to. Steps for cleaning piano keys 1. Removing the dust: To start with, you will need to get a dry dust cloth and wipe the keys gently to remove the excess dirt and dust that gets settled on the piano keys. It is significant while wiping them down that you are wiping them towards you. This will prevent all the dust from getting collected between all the gaps in the keys. 2. Wipe down all the white keys by using soapy water: Now, you will have to get another cloth to wipe down by using soapy water. It is recommended that you use a solution that is one part dish soap and 4 parts water. Just dab the cloth in the solution lightly and clean the keys one by one. Start at the bottom and work your way up from left to right. Never forget to wipe your keys back to front to ensure that the cloth remains clean. After you are done, take another cloth to dry them. 3. Cleaning the key fronts: Now, repeat the procedure for your key fronts by dabbing the cloth inside the soapy solutions and cleaning them. 4. Repeat the process for black keys: In the next step, you have to repeat the procedure for all the black keys. These black keys have to be cleaned second because you may stain the white ones otherwise. Cleaning plastic keys This simple technique can be used for both plastic and ivory keys. However, you may also use diluted white vinegar for cleaning plastic keys. This solution is good for removing fingerprints and stains. But while cleaning plastic keys on digital pianos, you should be careful about not using too much water as it might damage the instrument. Ensure that you have read the maker's manual for proper maintenance of digital pianos. Never expose the plastic keys to direct sunlight for a longer period. It will make them lose their color and go yellow. You should cover the windows with blinds, curtains, or other forms of protection against the sun. Cleaning and polishing ivory keys When you are cleaning ivory and plastic keys, the procedure is pretty much the same. It would be best if you polished the ivory keys, however. After some time, the ivory keys begin to lose their color and whiteness. You can replace the ivory... --- - Published: 2022-10-18 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/10/18/playing-piano-and-composing-music-the-enjoyment/ Music composition is easily one of the more rewarding and enjoyable experiences you can get as a musician and a composer. Every beginner piano student learning to play piano must try and compose piano music. But learning to compose piano music can be a bit overwhelming at the start. One might wonder where do I start? or What exactly must I compose? This uncertainty can leave you in a paralyzed state. Luckily there are some straightforward strategies you can use to learn composing music while playing piano. 1. Do not overthink and bother with judgment: Beginner piano students many times appear to be overwhelmed by the ways of learning how to compose music on the piano. Many times, they get caught up and let their uncertainty overtake their creativity. Never overthink while learning to play music. Never waste time judging what you need to compose. Do not get worried if you are not aware of the ways to read piano sheet music well. When you are approaching your first compositions, such as doddles on the margins of a paper or scribbling something on a napkin, it will be all right. 2. Create a simple sketch: You will find all your favorite composers sketching their ideas and constantly reiterating and tweaking their ideas. This will allow them to distill the essence of chord progression or melody. These initial sketches of the 5th symphony from Beethoven were far away from being finished as we see them today. Keep things such as these in your mind. Never get hung up with starting smallish musical ideas. One easy way of breaking the ice with composing music is to begin with basic elements. There are 4 basic elements in music, viz. melody, rhythm, chords and harmony, and dynamics. A good idea is to select one of these and go from there. 3. Emulate your heroes: Keep in mind that there is no shame in trying to emulate your musical heroes. This is true, especially when you are learning to compose piano music. It is almost essential at some stage to learn and study the songs developed by your biggest musical influences. This will allow you to learn the underlying architecture of the different songs you love. Here is a simple way for this. Find your favorite song. If it is available online, all the better. Learn all the components of this song. After you have learned to play it fluently, change the songs’ bits. In case the chord progression is D minor, you can think about shifting it to E minor or some other kind of variation. You can think about shifting the melody first. Learning composing music while playing piano can be a terrific experience that all piano beginners must try. But some students might feel a bit overwhelmed by this or get stuck while trying to compose the music for the first time. If you have a piano at home and want to get it tuned and you live in Tampa, FL area,... --- - Published: 2022-09-28 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/09/28/placement-of-a-grand-piano-or-an-upright-piano-in-a-room/ Are you looking to keep your grand piano or an upright piano in ship-shaped condition to improve its life expectancy? One of the significant factors that will affect this is where you can place the piano. It not only affects the mechanical and structural condition of the piano but also has an impact on the sound coming from it. So, it is a good idea to get it right. Let's look at some fundamental things you need to consider for a proper piano placement within a room. Placement of a grand piano There are certain things you need to keep in mind about placing the grand piano physically within a room. As far as the rule of thumb is concerned, you need to have the grand pianos with their left straight edge placed against your inner wall. This is the bass side, and it must run parallel to the wall. The treble side or the open lid side should be pointing into the room. This helps in the projection of treble frequencies clearly within the room. The lower frequency sound or the bass will bounce off the wall and return to the room. If you try to position the grand piano the other way around, you will get the treble bouncing off the wall instead of the bass. This means you will not get the optimal sound effect. If you are looking for a clear sound, you need to get the treble to carry and project inside the center of the room. Placement of upright piano Positioning the upright piano is relatively simpler and a lot more straightforward. Most of the upright pianos are placed up against the wall. Usually, this is an internal wall, and an external wall is not utilized for this. This helps protect the piano sound. However, there are certain "don’ts" that apply here. You need to avoid drafty spots and direct sunlight you get near the windows. As far as the positioning is concerned, with a great deal of sound coming from the back of the piano, you need to have the instrument pointing to the room as well. This depends on the space available, though. This also makes the instrument more audible for the people sitting in the room. Some general rules for both types of pianos Never place the piano near direct sunlight. There is a lot of heat generated by direct sunlight, and it dries up and weakens the glue joints and can also dry out the soundboard. It is a bad idea to place the piano near the window. The piano is not happy with changes in temperatures. There are changes in humidity levels happening near the window that causes the piano to swell and shrink. This will damage the tuning and negatively affect the mechanical condition of the piano. You need to keep these pianos away from all the drafty places as a change in temperature can play havoc with the machines. Although it is unavoidable many times, less airflow... --- - Published: 2022-08-09 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/08/09/how-to-practice-piano-playing-for-improvement/ When the learners become serious about playing piano, they tend to practice piano more and more. Everybody equates longer practicing hours with quicker progress and better improvement. If you visit a music college or conservatoire, you will find students who practice piano playing for 5, 6, or even 7 hours daily. However, are they aware of how to practice piano beneficially? Everyone needs to learn how to practice piano effectively. But many work full time and do not have much free time for piano practice. How long should a newbie practice piano? There is no fixed rule about the number of hours a beginner should practice piano. A music major having many pieces on the go can practice piano for as many as seven hours a day. Many of these pieces are likely to be extremely tough. It would be best to practice piano as long as you feel required to achieve these goals. For a complete beginner, you should not exceed more than 30 minutes daily. There is another problem you need to be aware of: negative practice. You are practicing a lot but getting worse at playing the piano. This happens typically due to bad habits such as incorrect practicing or practicing too fast. Should you practice piano each day? For a beginner, it is a good idea to practice piano every day. It is crucial to develop good habits. You will discover that the more you practice, the more desire you will develop for practice. It is similar to exercise. The more you do it, the greater will be your desire to do it. However, it is recommended that you give yourself a day off each week. It is beneficial to take a break because it is good for your mental health. It also feels nice to approach piano practice on Monday mornings with new concepts and fresh ideas. Some tips for upgrading your piano practice Practice playing piano for as long as you have free time. Practice piano slowly and deliberately. Don't go through the pieces too quickly. Never waste time on the instrument; you could develop bad habits. Never play pieces for the sake of going through them. Review your progress regularly by maintaining a practice journal. Most importantly, you need to enjoy learning music. If you continue playing something you hate, it saps the enjoyment of the piano practice. An effective and efficient piano practice session is, achieving all the objectives as the regular practice in less time without any distractions. Keep in mind that achieving this is not related to your capabilities. Whoever you are, and whatever capabilities you have, you have to learn to practice playing the instrument more efficiently. This will allow you to utilize the practice time in a better way and improve your proficiency at piano playing. If you live in Tampa, FL and your piano needs tuning, get in touch with Phil Frohna Piano Tuning for expert service. Picture Credit: Freepik --- - Published: 2022-07-26 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/07/26/tips-for-buying-piano-for-your-home/ Are you contemplating buying a piano for your house? In case you are, selecting the right one for your home is necessary. There are several different kinds of pianos that come in many sizes. So, how do you know which one is perfect for your home? Here are some tips for buying a piano that will be perfect for your requirements. Select the right piano size for your house You need to take into consideration the size of your house while choosing a piano. In case you have a small house, it might be a good idea to select a small piano. Similarly, in case you have a bigger home, you may wish to consider buying a piano of a larger size. You can get several different pianos on the market of varying sizes. Be sure to select one that fits the insides of your home. Selecting between a grand piano, upright piano, and a digital piano The upright pianos are the most popular kinds of pianos. They are usually small in size and, as a result, take up less space than the bigger grand pianos. These upright pianos are an excellent choice for smaller homes and apartments. The largest types of pianos are the grand pianos. They are normally used by professional pianists that are expected to play in big concert halls. These pianos are a terrific alternative for larger homes. Another new kind of piano is the digital piano. They are gradually becoming popular, and they are an excellent alternative for small apartments or homes. Selecting the right type of piano Fundamentally there are a couple of types of pianos, acoustic and digital. The former is the conventional kinds of pianos that have been used for centuries. They are crafted from wood and come with strings that are struck into place by hammers. These acoustic pianos make a full and rich sound that is loved by real pianists. The digital pianos use a new kind of technology for creating sound. They take up less space, and they are light in weight compared to acoustic pianos. This is a personal decision. Consider the requirements carefully while making this decision. Choosing the right piano for the budget If you stop at some good places in your city to buy pianos, you will find a wide range of prices on different machines. It doesn’t matter what kind of budget you have, small or large. There is a piano available out there that will be perfect for your home. In case you are buying a piano for your kid that is starting his learning, you may wish to select a less expensive model. The reason behind this choice is that kids many times lose interest fast, and you should not be keen to spend a great deal of money on things that they are not likely to use for long. You should not buy a piano to make it a piece of furniture in your house. You should buy a piano you... --- - Published: 2022-06-28 - Modified: 2022-06-28 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/06/28/how-music-positively-affects-your-life/ Music has been a part of our everyday existence for ages. From the moment humans started cutting logs and humming along the way this has become something we do in our everyday lives. Music for us is similar to the hearth. It is something for everyone to gather around and listen to. Many artists have built their careers in music because they were aware of ways to invigorate crowds. Music has been a constant source of entertainment for many people providing wonder and joy to many. Music can also be more and can be used for improving our lives. Here are some methods to do that. 1. Get fit Music is a perfect method for greasing the proverbial wheels when you are planning to get the body moving. When you go for Volleyball coaching in high school, you will find the coaches blasting songs on the overhead speakers of the gym to pump your team before the start of the game. You can use the music with your headphones as you are running to maintain rhythm and speed. The constant beat provided by the music can be the instrument that propels the tempo of the workout. 2. Find inner peace Some kind of music can get your heartbeat going while another type of music can calm you down and relax you. Many times, the human mind will find itself going through all the to-do lists, checking relationship statuses, bank accounts, etc. Music can help you in untangling the ball of yarn within your brain. It helps in putting brakes on the thoughts that are racing out of control. At a time when meditation appears to be impossible, you can put on a good soundtrack to lose yourself in all the vibrations swirling around you. 3. Face the fears Some people have the fear of cockroaches. But some people end up writing songs about them. Many of these people end up performing on stage hundreds of times to subside their fear of the arachnids. You will find some of them actually picking up the roach from the carpet and removing him gently. Overcoming this fear of cockroaches was made possible by music for many, believe it or not. 4. Understand the history Music is a history book or a time capsule. Listening to a song from another time can also tell you about those times when it was written. Reports about the state of the world in older jazz, blues, and rock'n'roll tunes can be clearer and more articulate than those you can find in any encyclopedia. These well-written songs many times tell a story about the generation. This is similar to the ancient cave paintings or hieroglyphics that were created thousands of years ago. 5. Acquiring knowledge Many of us have profited from a formal knowledge of music and are aware of the growth that can come only from study, devotion, and sacrifice. For many people, this might mean reading the entire work of Earnest Hemmingway. Or, learning everything there... --- - Published: 2022-05-24 - Modified: 2022-05-24 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/05/24/how-soon-can-i-do-piano-tuning-after-moving/ After a piano moving, the question often is if the owner should have piano tuning done. But do you need to have the piano tuned? In many circumstances, the answer is yes. Piano moving can take a lot out of this instrument. Various environmental differences, humidity, and other factors play a role in determining if you need piano tuning. A piano that is repositioned across town might not need as much tuning as one that was moved halfway across the country. Or a piano that was moved down several flights of stairs can be expected to need to be tuned more than one that was moved on even flooring. There's a lot more to relocating these instruments than meets the eye. Relocating a piano could prove to be a tough operation. It needs to be partly dismantled before migrating. The legs and pedals will be taken off and then bundled with the remainder of the casing. The instrument will then be raised by a team of pros and pivoted on its flank. It will then be placed on a dolly. Humidity has a huge effect on the keyed instrument. Some moving companies could offer climate-controlled transportation, but if your piano was not transported via this method, it can suffer from temp changes. Portions of the instrument could crack or shrink when temperatures change. The lumber could shrink too if there is not adequate vapor in the air. As these instruments are made from delicate materials, having a climate-controlled atmosphere is best. This is the exact motivation for why so many piano owners have humidifiers. Dryness is also an issue that affects if you will need piano tuning done. As the internal moisture in the piano begins to evaporate, the soundboard will shrink. This can cause cracking if too much moisture is permitted to evaporate. Many piano owners will see this occur. The dryness can also make the joints that hold the piano together weak. It is crucial that a piano acclimates to the unique conditions. This is why a piano moving service will tell you that you should wait to have your keyed instrument sit for a while before having it tuned. If you are in a hurry, wait at least 3 to 5 days. However, you certainly can wait longer than this. Do note that you may need to have the piano adjusted once again, as all portions of the instrument require to be adapted to the new surroundings. If you relocate where the climate changes several times per year, you may find that you need piano tuning completed after each season transition. And if you own a new keyed instrument, it will need to be adjusted a minimum of three times in the first year. Scheduling the move as late or as early in the day can help keep your keys in tune. At these times, the temps are lower, meaning the moving vehicle will not be as muggy. Find a moving company that specializes in pianos. These... --- - Published: 2022-04-12 - Modified: 2022-04-12 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/04/12/playing-piano-at-any-age-can-have-amazing-effects/ You may be a parent who wants his child to start playing Piano, or you have retired and looking to take up a new challenge. You would be surprised that playing Piano has some fantastic benefits for almost anyone from any age group. Improves Your Child And Makes Him A Better Student Learning to play a musical instrument makes your child a better student. Several studies have verified this fact and analyzed students who played a musical instrument in their elementary schools. The studies had shown remarkable improvement in students as they were significantly better than their non-music peers, especially in Science, Mathematics, and English subjects. Irrespective of their socioeconomic background, ethnicity, prior familiarity with these subjects, or gender, students learning music were consistent. The benefits extend to language skills too. It's observed that auditory skills learned by playing Piano enhance specific aspects of perception regarding spoken language beyond the already gained experience from reading. Learn Playing Piano At Any Age While you may not be able to learn some musical instruments at any age, playing the Piano can be started at any age. Daniel Levitin, in his blog, mentioned that the best musical instrument for older adults to learn is the Piano. This is because it's easy to get a good tone from a keyboard as anyone might sit down at a piano and play the C-sharp or Rubinstein. Although putting the notes together can be a challenge, you can start addressing them straight away. Moreover, it's easy to visualize scales and chords as they are in front of you. Playing the piano can relieve stress in kids that come with adulthood. Similarly, playing Piano is beneficial for this reason. Simple piano lessons for adults can help in dealing with stress over time. Makes You Healthier Playing the piano is an ultimate stress reliever, and it simply means playing with no top-end goal in mind. You should enjoy the process of noodling around and let your fingers glide over the keys without putting any pressure on improving your technique or creating something special. Doing this will allow the instrument to take you somewhere for musical joy. Music can reach places where words cannot. Recreational music-making helps in reducing stress and facilitates better healing. It can even alter gene expression pathways in patients suffering from coronary heart diseases. Playing Piano as an adult can stimulate the brain in several ways. Even neuroplasticity sees drastic improvements in making new connections and remapping the old patterns. Sitting down at the Piano feels like the brain lights up with excitement. You would feel better after playing even if you only idle over the keys for some minutes. As beginners, there are numerous possibilities in our minds compared to experts who have limited ones. Thus, your aim might only be to learn a single song for your pleasure or perfect your performance techniques; playing Piano has several healing benefits. It relaxes your mind, spirit, soul, and body. Playing Piano isn't difficult when you have... --- - Published: 2022-02-23 - Modified: 2022-02-23 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/02/23/tips-to-improve-your-concentration-while-playing-piano/ Learning piano is a terrific pastime however, your attempts are likely to get thwarted because of a lack of energy or time. One of the other important reasons why people give up learning piano is a lack of concentration. It just doesn’t make them feel motivated and they get distracted from their targets as a result. Many students are wondering how they will stay motivated and focused on piano learning. If you intended to learn to play piano but were distracted earlier, this article is for you. Here are some tips to keep you motivated and achieve the goal of being a pianist. 1. Ensure that you are enjoying the music: Several students lose their focus because they just do not find the music, they are playing to be interesting. It is a common issue typically when you are working on a piece for a long time. It is a challenge to learn to read music. Therefore, it might be a good idea to use some simple music pieces that you enjoy instead of slogging through some heavy-duty piece of classical music just because that’s what you intend to do. 2. Space out: It is healthy to space out. You need to take breaks in your practice sessions for refreshing your mind and provide your hands and fingers with the rest. It is an established way of improving productivity. Just concentrate for ten minutes on a single task. For instance, you can just practice the right hand for ten minutes on your new piano. You can set an alarm for this and at the end of this period, you can walk around the home to drink a glass of water and perform some activity for about five minutes. This will freshen you up and get you ready. 3. Keep a positive atmosphere: Selecting the right environment for practicing is critical for making sure that you are keeping your concentration going during the practice session. Be attentive while setting up the piano practice area. This will ensure that you are creating an ideal situation for your creative side to emerge. It doesn't matter whether you are sitting in a small corner or a special area of the house, you need to keep the area organized and healthy. The atmosphere around it must be free from distractions. 4. Set realistic goals: One of the easiest ways of losing your focus is by setting unrealistic goals. If you envisage becoming a piano master in a month, you will face real problems. Have manageable and small goals that you can concentrate on for shorter periods. This will allow you to maintain your concentration on the instrument and help you in the larger schema of things while becoming a pianist. Make a small beginning with easy piano songs and then work your way up. When you ensure that you are playing the music you enjoy for your practice session you will have better chances of concentrating. Keep in mind that all pianists struggle in their... --- - Published: 2022-01-18 - Modified: 2022-01-18 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2022/01/18/piano-pedals-and-why-they-are-so-important/ If you look under your piano, you can find three brass-colored levers close to the bottom. They are piano pedals and they are present on upright or grand pianos. A lot of pianists wonder what they do but these piano pedals are significant for creating music. You can find pedal markings on some sheets of music. When you press the piano pedal, small blocks of felt on the strings called dampers are lifted. These dampers are responsible for muting piano strings after you have lifted your fingers from the keys. Types of piano pedals Piano pedals are used to enrich the sound with more sustainable notes or by accentuating the soft dynamics. It is important to know what the three pedals on the piano do. 1. Sustain pedal: It is the right pedal and is also called a damper pedal. 2. Una corda pedal: Una corda means a single string and it is the left pedal of the piano. 3. Sostenuto pedal: This is the middle pedal and can have three functions. 4. Digital pedals: Digital pedals are plugged into the keyboards. Using piano pedals Moonlight Sonata is a terrific song for practicing piano pedaling. The damper pedal can be used here for creating a sense of reflection. you can begin by a change of pedal on every measure's first beat. Keep in mind to take the pedal off and place it down to strike new notes. You may move the pedal by using swift up-and-down motions. Hold the pedal for the downbeat. There is an old saying related to piano playing. It asks you to "play with your ears". Ensure that you listen carefully to the sound of piano pedals. Sometimes notes get blurry. You need to lift your foot high off the piano pedal in this case. In case the notes are not blending correctly, apply more pedal down. You will need some practice for getting it right and feel effortless. There are many great lessons available online. In case you are interested in finding out more, you can use the free trials offered by some of the sites. Some of them use AI-powered systems for listening and responding to your efforts in real-time. This is a great opportunity for piano students at any stage. Reading pedal notations After you have understood the use of piano pedals, you need to learn how the piano pedals are to be notated. Notation can be seen for soft and sustain pedals however, they are rarely observed for the middle pedal unless you are playing on a grand piano. Damper pedal notating: It is easy to identify the pedal notation. There is the Indication Ped. It tells you to start playing the sustain pedal. Soft pedal notation: Notating the soft piano pedals is achieved either through dynamic marking pp, dynamic marking una corda, or a single string. Using digital keyboards There is another advantage associated with digital keyboards. You may explore the world of bass and guitar effects by using those piano... --- - Published: 2021-12-15 - Modified: 2021-12-15 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/12/15/getting-back-to-playing-piano/ If you are an adult student that has possibly learned to play piano as a child and you are interested in making a fresh beginning, read on. Deciding to play the piano again is certainly one of the better decisions you will make. There is not only a range of benefits involved in practicing various instruments for your creative and mental health but playing the piano is also a lot of enjoyment. But it may be a tad difficult to figure out ways of getting back to playing piano after a while away from the instrument. Here are some ideas and tips to get you started. Decide the right music: Deciding on the right music to play is a huge step when you are getting back to playing piano again. There are several method books available that are designed for adult learners specifically. When you decide to go by this route, you need to opt for books that are designed for adult players, as opposed to those used by children. Some apps available on the internet offer engaging and exciting ways of getting back into piano playing. These apps offer a repertoire covering everything from soul to gamut to contemporary. These apps are ideally suited to adult students. Keep things simple: Similarly, you also need to identify that you will in all probability not be the same player you were while growing up. If you gave up practicing, you would have lost the technique you possessed before the gap. So, it is going to need practice to re-acquire your skills. Maintain faith in the process and just practice easy music while you are starting. Ensure that you are reviewing fundamental rhythms such as half notes, full notes, and quarter notes. This will ensure that you are avoiding the frustration you would have felt while learning difficult music after years away from the instrument. Ensure that you have the right instrument: Keep in mind that there is no need to invest in a grand piano when you are just getting back to paying. However, ensure that you are using a quality instrument. You can also find a range of alternatives in electric pianos that cater to various pricing options. Having instruments with quality piano samples and weighed keys will go a long way in making sure that you enjoy your experience with the instrument. There is every chance that you already own a piano that you love playing and it sounds great. You will improve quickly while using it. Learn from online lessons: There is a good chance that you did not have a chance to take online lessons while practicing as a child. You can take online piano lessons from top apps because it is one of the cooler concepts for music education to have emerged in the last decade. It is a terrific way of getting back into piano playing. These online piano-playing lessons allow the students to learn from anywhere practically and also at their own pace and... --- - Published: 2021-10-13 - Modified: 2021-10-13 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/10/13/how-to-select-the-perfect-sized-piano-for-your-room/ Now that you have decided you are buying a piano, you might be already anticipating enjoyment of it could bring you. However, there are pianos of different shapes and sizes and it can be very difficult to finalize the perfect option to go with. But you will be pleased that using some easy guidelines discussed below, you can select the best piano suiting your space. Types of Pianos Essentially there are two different piano types, i. e. grand and upright. Size is the differentiating factor among the two but their characteristic shapes due to the position of their soundboards are also different. As the soundboards of a grand piano are mounted horizontally, the instrument has a bigger footprint and a much sleeker profile when compared to the uprights. Grand pianos are mostly preferred by professional musicians as they offer a more dynamic and richer sound compared to the uprights. Yamaha YUS Series uprights are an exception to this feature as it offers a broad range of sonic tonalities that are more reminiscent of the grand pianos. Uprights usually take less space and are mostly less expensive compared to grand pianos. They are preferred by music students or staple of schools and conservatories across the world. Size of Pianos Grand pianos are available in many sizes. From the Baby grand models that are about 4. 5 feet in length to the Concert grand models that can be as long as 9 feet. On the other hand, Upright pianos start from small Spinet models to larger consoles and studio models. They can be as high as 52”. However, the most interesting feature is the width of both the piano types which are always around 5 feet. It is because they all offer a standard 88-note keyboard. Yamaha sells a range of grand pianos from the popular GB1K series to the GC Series baby grands. They also sell the CX and SX series that have been internationally popular. Which Is The Perfect Sized Piano For Me? Room size is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a piano. Large rooms can accommodate larger pianos and if your budget permits, you should be purchasing the largest piano that fits your room comfortably. Considering a large piano is important as the increased surface area of the soundboard and greater length of the strings translates in better vibration energy. It eventually increases projection meaning larger grand pianos sound a lot louder compared to the smaller alternatives. But in the case of non-professional pianists who do not play with the same velocity, they need to have to make larger pianos project to their best potential. Hence, it’s unlikely that you will fill in a large room with sound while playing the piano leisurely. Another factor to consider is if playing the piano disturbs people around you. Room treatments can help in reducing the sound from going out. For rooms filled with a lot of furniture and carpeting on the floor, the sound travels a... --- - Published: 2021-09-14 - Modified: 2024-10-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/09/14/how-to-learn-piano-yourself-at-home/ A common question asked by aspiring pianists is if they can learn piano themselves at home. Yes, it is possible. Although learning piano from an instructor is the best way, some students often prefer self-learning. The piano is the most versatile instrument, learning it serves you well in various other areas of life. In case you are truly committed to playing the instrument, the following guide can help you get started. Buy Your Keyboard or Piano It's impossible to learn piano if you don’t own one yourself. Despite having access to a piano at a public place, you need the privacy of your home to learn and master the instrument. Hence, the 1st step is to make an investment which is roughly between $2000 to $10,000. Starting as a beginner you don’t need a grand piano but your instrument should be of good quality. Acoustic pianos being large and heavy need regular tuning to remain functional. Although these aspects create a negative image, replacing the sound and feel of a real piano isn’t possible. In case you are looking for an affordable option, buy a digital keyboard to start with. Usually, such pianos having 88-keys start at about $150. Additionally, you require a keyboard stand, sustain pedal, and a piano bench. The cost increases if you look for a piano with more features such as sound effects, USB drive, sample songs, internal metronome, etc. On the other hand, refrain from getting tempted to buy inexpensive or low-quality pianos. You should look for a piano with weighted keys as it helps you in achieving different dynamics of the music you learn. Find Middle C When Starting Now that you have a keyboard but no musical background, you might be overwhelmed while looking at those keys. The first and foremost thing to do here would be finding the middle C. It acts as your home base or the place where each beginner pieces work off of. For finding middle C, you should sit in front of the piano and position yourself at the center. Black keys are arranged in sets of two and three and Middle C is the white key that is placed on the left of the grouping of two black keys at the center of the keyboard. Start by placing the right thumb on the Middle C, the pointer finger on its left, and the middle finger on the white note that is next to E. Now using the three notes, you can play Mary Had a Little Lamb by ear. Learn To Read Music, Finger Exercises, and Chord Progression Before expecting to play the piano, you need to pin down some good resources that explain how you can learn piano yourself. Internet is the perfect resource to get content and tips. You can browse through some popular websites that rank on top for different search terms such as “Learn Piano Yourself”. They provide you an in-depth idea of the best approach and tips. Combine Self Learning With Lessons... --- - Published: 2021-08-10 - Modified: 2021-08-10 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/08/10/how-music-can-improve-your-life/ Music has been around ever since humans started banging logs or humming along. It is a constant accompaniment that has its presence in almost every stage of our life. Music remains to be a medium that connects people. It can draw huge crowds to assemble, listen and discuss. Knowing how to invigorate a crowd, artists have managed to make their careers in the music industry. Music remains to be an incredible source of entertainment, wonder, and joy. You might be surprised to know that music can also be used to improve our lives. Let’s look at some ways in which music affects and improves our lives. Improve Fitness Music has the potential to get you moving your body. For example, in high schools or basketball training schools, coaches often play songs on loudspeakers to pump a team before a match. Music is played everywhere from a gym to your earphones when you exercise or jog. Besides keeping the pace and rhythm, constant beats can speed up your tempo. Find Inner Peace Apart from having the potential to get your heartbeat going, music can calm and relax it down too. Each one of us is racing against time to manage work, relationships, finances, and a lot more. But music can help you unwind the tangled ball of yarn inside your brain and put breaks on your thoughts that are racing beyond your control. Playing the right soundtrack can work wonders even where meditation might fail. Encourages You To Face Your Fears You can use music to fight your worst fears. For instance, although funny, a woman fearing spiders wrote a song on them and performed at several stages. This helped her reduce her distress levels and she even picked it up one day and gently removed it from a picnic basket. Revisit History Music is a great source to revisit history and learn about our past. For instance, if you listen to a song from a distant era, it gives you an idea about how songs were written during that period. Several encyclopedias offer clear and articulate information about the state of the world during the jazz, old blues, classic rock, and other phases. Increase Your Knowledge Irrespective of our fields, most of us have benefitted from formal training and lessons received during our schooling. We are well-aware of the growth such learnings offer thanks to the dedication, sacrifice, and study we did to gain such knowledge. Similarly, understanding music requires skills. It is similar to learning any language. It may also require having a grasp of time signature or knowledge or dynamics of the lineage of songwriters and their work. Improve Your Collaboration Skills Knowing where you fit is difficult but the best thing about music is that it gives you the flexibility to add something new. It could be another string player, another voice in the harmony, one more tambourine in the background, etc. Music provides enough scope for both musicians and non-musicians. Collaborating with music not only improves... --- - Published: 2021-07-13 - Modified: 2021-07-13 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/07/13/how-to-prepare-yourself-before-playing-piano-before-an-audience/ How would you feel if you are asked to perform in front of a large audience? Does this idea make you sweat or your hands shake? You don’t have to worry if that happens to you as this is completely normal. It’s a natural human instinct that occurs due to stressful circumstances. Both beginners and experienced piano players experience this before playing in front of an audience. But you would be happy to know that performance anxiety is a healthy thing and it can be used to boost your performance. Yes, you read it right, it’s possible and some performers or musicians have learned to use it to their advantage. You can do it too but you need to learn to manage your performance anxiety instead of trying to overcome it. We have discussed some important tips that can help you manage and control the outcome. Prepare Well And Repertoire Often You need to know your song or piece well and play regularly to improve steadily. Consistent habit to practice and that too correctly is important. The most important stage is knowing the most difficult passage and spending considerable time to become comfortable with the tricky parts. Select The Best Pieces For Your Performance If you are not at the level of performing virtuoso pieces, you are taking a huge risk. You should always choose the pieces that you are best and most comfortable with. Playing piano regularly supports repertoire growth and enables you to add more pieces to your list of potential performance pieces. You may go for that virtuoso piece later but not before you are comfortable enough. Playing a simple piece to start with is completely fine and you don’t need to prove yourself to anybody. Practice Performing Simulating playing piano in your living room by settling down on your bench at your piano, opening the scorebook, taking a deep breath, and playing the entire song is important. Aim to finish the entire piece despite making a mistake or two during your performance. You should do the same if playing in front of an audience. It’s recommended to repeat this simulation regularly as over a period you gain more confidence. Such efforts let you learn ways that can help in saving your performance despite making mistakes. After all, the audience will not leave if you ended up playing D instead of E, on one note. Start Performing In Front of Small Audiences First Playing piano in front of a large audience increases anxiety levels without a doubt. However, if you start by performing in front of close friends, loved ones or neighbors ensure you perform well. If you have anxiety issues in front of people, you may start by performing in front of your dog. Although it sounds ridiculous, there is nothing wrong with starting it that way. Over a period, you can perform in front of people and later a larger audience as you gradually gain more confidence with each practice performance you give. Stay Calm... --- - Published: 2021-06-08 - Modified: 2021-06-08 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/06/08/practice-playing-piano-how-often/ Betterment of skills at playing the piano takes a lot of work and you are going to need a lot of practice for it. However, mindless practice for playing piano will not be effective for improving the skills. It doesn’t matter how much time you spend playing piano, it is significant to enhance the skills for making sure that playing piano practice is an efficient and deliberate process that will optimize your improvement. There must be definite goals you need to set for playing piano both in the long-term and short-term sense. The practice sessions have to be based on achieving these goals. Length of a session for a beginner The exact amount of time any beginner must spend on practice primarily depends on the age of the person. Younger children will not have the attention span required for practicing effectively. Around 15 to 20 minutes of practice every day will be sufficient for children around the age of 4 to 5. Even though this might seem like enough time for improving the skills, it is also significant primarily because it develops a habit in children to practice playing piano daily. In the case of older beginners such as adults and teenagers, these practice sessions have to around 30 minutes daily, six days a week. With improvement in skills, things will become highly beneficial and you can raise your practice time to 45 minutes or even an hour. It will be essential to take this time out for maintaining the skill level and improve it. It is around this time when the regular methods used for practice must be introduced into regular practice sessions. Number of hours every week You need to practice consistently each week as it is far more important than spending a huge number of hours on it. Also, keep in mind that deliberate practice will be far more useful than mindless practice sessions. The effectiveness of your practice sessions is more significant. It is a lot better to practice 30 minutes daily rather than spending 3 hours twice a week. The actual amount of time you will spend practicing piano is likely to fluctuate depending on your skill levels. It also depends on how quickly you are planning to improve your skills. Generally, it is a good idea to spend 45 minutes daily playing the piano to improve skills. In case you are looking to practice for several hours each day, it might be a good idea to break the sessions into small routines throughout the day. This also prevents you from straining your body and practice sessions will be far more effective. The number of hours spent on practice is not as important as the effectiveness and consistency of the practice session. Practice sessions for pros Pro pianists are required to spend a lot more time on piano practice than your normal enthusiast. Not only are they required to maintain advanced skill levels, but they are also required to improve on these already advanced skills.... --- - Published: 2021-04-11 - Modified: 2021-04-11 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/04/11/piano-tune-up-in-zephyrhills-fl-by-tampa-piano-tuning-phil-frohna/ Tampa Piano Tuning by Phil Frohna offers piano tuning services for all of Tampa, Florida and within a 70-mile driving distance of Tampa proper. I do offer the church, military, and senior citizen discounts; as well as discounts are given for multiple pianos at one site and referrals to friends. --- - Published: 2021-04-06 - Modified: 2021-04-06 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/04/06/taking-time-to-learn-playing-piano/ Many times it feels as if time is speeding up and becoming unavailable quickly especially after the last year. With all the events happening around you all the time, you may wonder if you will ever find time to practice playing the piano. It is difficult to find the time away from a packed schedule to practice the instrument. The key lies in balancing music, work, and family and make time for playing the piano. Here are some significant factors towards it. Key lies in consistency The key to finding time to play piano lies in consistency in balancing the responsibilities of life with practice. If you work out for 2 hours on just a single day of a week, it is not going to make you stronger. But, if you can find time for 30 minutes, five days a week, it will work for you. You are not going to become healthier just by consuming two healthy meals in a week and having fast food the rest of the time. You are going to need consistent efforts while learning to practice piano no matter how much time you can provide. You can surely find 15 minutes every day for piano practice, right? Prepare a schedule Nobody is going to provide you the time to practice piano. You will have to find the time yourself so, prepare a schedule. Set a timer for 30 minutes each day after dinner. Or, you may set aside time first thing in the morning just before your breakfast. After a refreshing practice session you can move on with your daily chores and you will find them more enjoyable as you are starting your day with a creative and stress relieving activity. You can also play piano during your lunch break or before bedtime, just schedule the right time. You will also discover that you are scheduling other events of your life as well in this vain and it will be beneficial to you overall. Get the family involved You might wonder whether you will miss out on family time to practice playing the piano. There is no need to worry as you can get the entire family involved in practicing music. It is a wonderful experience to play music and it is also a great way of spending time together as a whole family. Apart from that, you can also expose your family to the several benefits involved in playing piano and get them more involved in music. You might even develop a family band. Pay attention and remain excited There are several forms involved in practicing music. For instance, you may have a listening journal. Take some time out to listen to the songs that you enjoy. Use headphones while listening to the songs in a quiet place away from all distractions. Write down your thoughts about this song in the journal. Why do you think this particular song makes you feel this way? Or, why do the saxophones enter the piece when... --- - Published: 2021-03-03 - Modified: 2021-03-03 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/03/03/art-of-practicing-to-play-piano-well/ Many people practice playing the piano or other similar musical instruments for longer hours every day while others practice just for 20 minutes each day a few times every week. The question is, does it mean that people practicing for longer hours are more likely to get better? The answer is not necessarily. The number of hours you spend practicing to play piano has little to do with the progress you make. Remember, all great musicians are aware of the significance of practicing efficiently and with a lot of concentration. Here are some tips for your practice session. 1. Set a goal Do not just dive into a practice session without being aware of what you are trying to achieve. Before even sitting on the desk you must be aware of what you are going to do on the session. It could be one of these things, Coordinating left and right hands together. Improve capability to play the right-handed melody. Learning keys and recognizing notes from bass clef and treble. Memorize a part of a song. Play at a greater tempo. The point here is that you need to set a goal that can be accomplished in a short period that is available for the practice session. Then you can play the piano to achieve this goal. It will reduce waste of time and will keep you focused. 2. Do a warm-up routine Always remember that no pro athlete will ever start his practice session without a proper warm-up. The same thing is applicable for the pianist. Significantly, you have a routine for getting your fingers and head warmed up for the occasion. If you are only making a beginning try out "It Takes Five". This is a terrific starting point for right-hand warm-up. Every time you sit for a practice session perform this warm-up by using the same material. Do not try anything new or complex. You must try things you are already aware of and do not strain your fingers. It is also about getting into the right mindset. Ensure that you have a calm mind and body to enter practice mode to play the piano. 3. Break down the task After you have set the goal and are warmed up take out a few minutes to develop a plan for practice sessions. A good idea is to have smaller pieces of practice material. Practice step-by-step and use a single step at a time. If you are practicing with pros, every session will be well-structured and it will be broken into smaller pieces. It is an effective way of achieving your target efficiently. Even when you are not using this method, it might be a good idea to break down the session into smaller events. 4. Use a slow speed for practice For avoiding mistakes you have to make sure that you are feeding your brain with the right info. This ensures that the brain can remember quicker. This is called brain synapses consolidation. If you try to... --- - Published: 2021-02-02 - Modified: 2021-02-02 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/02/02/play-piano-in-front-of-an-audience/ How would you feel if someone asked to play piano in front of a huge audience? The very idea may get your hands to tremble and have cold sweat running down your spine. But rest assured it is pretty normal and you are not alone. It just shows that you are human and keep in mind that all musicians go through this phase. But remember, performance anxiety is good and can be used to improve performance. Although you may not have planned to play in front of an audience ever, keep in mind that the greatest joy of playing the piano is in front of an audience. The key lies in managing the anxiety rather than allowing it to overcome your performance. Here are some tips. 1. Be prepared and practice the repertoire often You need to know your piece or song well and practice playing it regularly leading to improvement all the time. Also, practice properly and develop good practicing habits. One of the more significant things to remember while preparing to play piano in front of an audience is being aware of the more difficult passages and spend a great deal of time getting comfortable with the tricky part. You need to know the piece from back to front. Play it fast, slow, and then normal. If you fail to prepare you should be prepared to fail. 2. Select the right piece If you select a piece that is out of your capability or skill level you will be asking for trouble. Select a composition you are comfortable playing and are confident with. It will show off your talents without having to stress too much. When you are required to play multiple pieces, it will be a good idea, to begin with, the easiest one. This will allow you to master the composition and let you feel more confident about the remaining performance. As you progress further as a pianist, your repertoire will raise and you can add more compositions to the list of alternatives for performance. 3. Practice the performance You should simulate the performance atmosphere within your living quarters. Settle yourself on a bench by the piano, open the pages of your scorebook, take in a deep breath, and play out the full piece till its end. In case you make mistakes try to complete the piece and then try to imagine being in front of an audience even though you are trying to play piano all by yourself. Repeat these simulations often and with the time you are going to get more confidence. After a while, you will realize that you can save a performance even after a mistake and the error is not the end of the world. Even if you fail to save it the loved ones are unlikely to leave the house if you played an E rather than a D for the note. 4. First test in front of a small audience In case your first performance is at the Carnegie... --- - Published: 2021-01-13 - Modified: 2021-01-13 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2021/01/13/tips-for-practicing-playing-piano/ When you are not sure about where to make a beginning while sitting down at the piano, here are some piano playing practice tips to help you maintain concentration to achieve a meaningful improvement in your skills. Keep in mind that practice is the most significant part of the learning process and becoming an expert piano player. Keep in mind these tips to raise your piano playing practice time to the highest potential. 1. Set a target: If you sit down for playing the piano and decide that you are just going to play for a bit of time you are not going to get very far. You are unlikely to learn anything either. Rather than that set a goal. Decide something such as; tonight I am going to learn to play piano for the opening song of My Fair Lady. After setting the goal you need to keep going at it until the target is vanquished. However, set goals that are achievable during a certain practice period. When you have just a couple of hours there is no point in trying to learn the "Planets Suite" from Holst. It might be a better idea to opt for the small portion in Jupiter. 2. Keep in mind to warm up: Did you ever attempt to send a text message when your fingers were freezing with a cold? It is next to impossible. When you try to type quickly without making errors you will find it to be a herculean task because the fingers are stiff. The same applies to playing the piano. It is significant to warm up the fingers of your hand so that it is possible to play the keys easily. It is specifically more significant while learning to play piano because you are likely to stumble on to a lot of mistakes even without those stiff clunky fingers. A proper warm-up allows you to achieve flow. This can happen only when you are locked in on the task at hand. 3. Slow down and set aside some time for basics: You will find that the trick to learning difficult songs is to learn at half the speed and then gradually speed up. Slow down until you can play the piano comfortably and perfectly. After this, you can think about raising your speed a bit but you must have completed successful reiterations at least thrice. Also, ensure that you are setting aside at least 15 minutes of piano playing time for things such as accuracy, scales, and timing. Keep in mind that technical skills can be learned only through repetition. Just have 15 minutes for basics in all your practice sessions and soon you will be playing insanely good technical pieces. 4. Never take on too much: Unless you are a born piano playing virtuoso, it is unlikely that you can master some arrangement the very first time you played it. Rather than considering the whole piece, break it down into more manageable sections. Depending on your capability... --- - Published: 2020-12-16 - Modified: 2020-12-16 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/12/16/digital-piano-vs-acoustic-piano-a-comparison/ When you are looking to purchase a piano, there are a few considerations you need to take into account before taking the plunge. Factors such as the amount of money you are looking to spend, where you are going to place the machine, and the biggest decision is whether to buy a digital piano or acoustic piano? Keep in mind that the acoustic pianos are the real pianos. Its case is made from solid wood that cradles the 220 strings, soundboard, hammers, and several other moving components. The distinctive character of a piano is its capability to play both loud and soft music along with everything in between. The digital pianos are electronic and they do not have as many moving components. They use built-in speakers to create sampled piano sounds. Pros of acoustic pianos It produces organic sound. Playing classical music on an acoustic piano is a great experience. It is a beautiful instrument and enhances the appearance of a house. Cons of acoustic pianos Its size and weight can be unwieldy. Special care is required for its maintenance. They require frequent tuning. It may need polishing depending on its finishing. Pros of digital pianos The digital piano makers step up their game every year. One of the complaints piano players had about the digital piano was that it doesn’t quite sound like the acoustic piano. This problem is being rectified by the digital piano makers every year. Many digital pianos these days have wooden keys that respond similarly to the acoustic piano. They have other advantages over the conventional instrument. They are lightweight and can be moved around the house more readily. Digital pianos are not as sensitive to the environment as the acoustic version. There is no need of tuning the instrument. You are unlikely to disturb your neighbors because you can just use headphones or turn down its volume. These instruments come with MIDI capabilities that allow you to do several interesting things. Most digital pianos have recording capabilities. There is a range of choices available for sound. They are a lot cheaper than acoustic pianos. Cons of digital pianos The biggest downside is that it is not quite like the acoustic piano despite its several advantages. It doesn’t look as great as the conventional machines. It is tougher to get the digital pianos repaired. Comparison between acoustic piano and digital piano The fact remains that you cannot beat owning an acoustic piano. It has a personality and soul that the digital version doesn’t have. However, getting an acoustic piano might not always be practical. If you have sufficient budgets think about getting both machines. Although this may sound extravagant, it depends on your intentions about playing the instrument and the constraints of your budget. However, this can pay off a great deal while practicing. For instance, there is the constant worry that you will disturb the neighbors while practicing the acoustic pianos. The digital piano can get rid of this problem but you will not... --- - Published: 2020-11-11 - Modified: 2020-11-11 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/11/11/everything-you-need-to-know-before-buying-a-celeste/ Celeste is a musical instrument that provides a bell-like sound. There is a shade of mystery about the celestes. Both celeste (called celesta sometimes) and the keyboard glockenspiel make use of a mechanism similar to that of a grand piano. It means that a person capable of playing the piano can also play these musical instruments. If you are planning to buy a celeste for your church, school, or performance hall here are some tips to guide you through the process. Understand your requirements All institutions are different in terms of makeup and size and all of them will have requirements that vary. The factors for consideration while buying a celeste include size, model, and the number of instruments required. For instance, a piano instructing studio might be a very small space that is cluttered with books, is carpeted, and has chairs and desks. On the other hand, a university performance hall can seat thousands of concertgoers. The church venue might be an odd-shaped room that is filled with glass windows and pews. Regardless of the configuration required the celeste you select will have to meet a range of demands. Therefore, before making a buy ask yourself these questions. · Who is going to use the celeste? It could be beginners/experts/concert artists/or international guests on tour. · How do you plan on using the celeste? For lessons to the graduate students/church services/recordings/ or live performances. · How often do you plan on playing the celeste? 18 hours a day as practice for students or occasional concerts. · What is the size of the room primarily used for playing the instrument? If you are going to use a concert performance hall that seats 3000 people you may need 2 celestes; one for the rehearsals and the other for the actual performance. · Is the celeste going to stay in a fixed location or will it move around? Understand the instrument Celeste is a percussion instrument having a keyboard and it comes with reverberant and unique sound quality. There are a few things you need to understand about the instrument before buying it. · Size and thickness of the soundbar. · Reasons behind the holes in the soundbar. · Significance of celeste pedaling. · Use of some unusual material for the soundbar. · The hammer shanks of celeste vary from those of grand pianos. · Remember, that celeste maintenance resembles that of a piano. · You can hear the celeste from the back of a room. Keep this in mind. Just striking a soundbar doesn’t do much in terms of sound. The sound generated will be quiet and it will not reverberate much. Due to this reason, the celestes need wooden resonator boxes that sit above the soundbars. In the case of most instruments, these resonator boxes used are graduated on 4 levels. Its bass range resonator box is on the top level, the middle range boxes are on the low right, and the treble boxes are on the lower left and... --- - Published: 2020-10-15 - Modified: 2020-10-15 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/10/15/refinishing-a-used-piano/ You can find the cheap used pianos plenty these days. They are set aside to make way for more sophisticated and compact machines although not many people can brag about having a Steinway. But before buying the available piano it is a good idea to have a professional look at it. An experienced technician can look at the piano to find patterns such as whether a cluster of strings has gone out of tune. He can also spot the issues with other things such as the pin block. But keep in mind that if the piano has been out of use for years, the only way of knowing whether it can be useful is by tuning it and verifying if can hold a tune. Getting a piano technician to check the used piano The piano technicians will normally charge between $100 to $200 for piano tuning and $100 for the inspection. A good way of finding a proper technician is by doing a bit of triangulation. Try to get word of mouth recommendations out of friends and piano teachers. You can also check with local piano dealerships and finally, check the listings of Piano Technicians Guild. The piano technician can check whether the used piano is worth buying before you purchase it. An expert can also tell you whether the piano can play well just by tuning it and regular maintenance without you having to refinish it. Refinishing the piano Most used pianos are in the need of a bit of TLC. If they are showing just a few signs of wear and tear it doesn’t necessarily mean that there is a need to replace the machine. You can use a DIY piano makeover to save money and improve the appearance of the piano. But, if you own a valuable antique or a family heirloom it may be a good idea to get the services of a professional. The steps for a DIY update of your piano include, Dissemble the piano. Clean the instrument. Cover the soundboard and the keys. Strip and/or sand the piano surfaces. Select a finish. Add a fresh coat of paint. Refinish the piano by using black lacquer. Apply stain to spruce up the piano. Tune the piano and refinish the keys. Staining a used piano Many times it is not a good idea to refinish a used piano. Not only because the old pianos look great but after restoration, you are likely to feel that you hadn’t. Due to this reason, you can consider the staining option for your machine. The finished product in this case will be aesthetically pleasing. When you have a used piano that needs to be refinished or stripped either because you wish to re-stain the machine or because it has built-up paint, it is a good idea to set aside a lot of time for finishing the project and not rush into it. Keep in mind that it is a workable possibility and can save a lot of money. Although... --- - Published: 2020-09-23 - Modified: 2020-09-23 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/09/23/tune-up-kawai-upright-cx-series-21d-in-tampa-fl-by-tampa-piano-tuning-phil-frohna/ Kawai upright CX SERIES 21D. Hasn't been tuned in many years. Required Pitch raise and then a fine tuning. --- - Published: 2020-09-09 - Modified: 2020-09-09 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/09/09/clean-piano-keys-easy-steps/ If you are a regular piano player you will be aware of the fact that maintaining the piano in great shape for an extended period means regular maintenance and cleaning the piano when required. A clean piano is key to proper and long term maintenance. One of the more significant tasks included in the maintenance process is cleaning the piano keys. Dust, dirt, and the oils from your skin can get collected on the keys thereby making them look dingy. Cleaning the piano keys is pretty easy and it leads to keys like new. Cleaning the piano keys Before you get down to cleaning the piano keys it is a good idea to dust-off them so the dust on the surface is removed. You can do this in between sessions as well by using a duster, soft-bristled brush, or a soft paintbrush. Brush down to push the dust away from the piano keys. If you are just looking to disinfect the piano keys, get the help of filtered water and white vinegar to wipe them. You can use flannels or cheesecloth to wipe down vertically. Take time in between the wipes to allow the keys to dry out. Keep in mind to change the cloth for black and white keys. The solution made from white vinegar and warm water is the best method for cleaning plastic keys as anything else cannot be used for plastic, not even soap. Ensure that you are using just a little bit. You need one part vinegar with four parts of water. There is an acid in the vinegar therefore too much use can damage the keys. If you are cleaning the ivory piano keys you can use a mild solution of warm water with a bit of dish soap. Ensure that you are using a white cloth for the purpose so that other colors cannot be bled on to the white keys. Use brushing movements while wiping and do not use scrubbing like motions that may cause damage. Cleaning ivory keys You may use white toothpaste for cleaning ivory keys but ensure that you are using normal white toothpaste. Colored toothpaste and gels discolor and corrode the ivory. It will help you in whitening the keys. Another method for cleaning the ivory keys could be moving them in direct sunlight as it can bleach the keys to make them look white again. There is another method for having clean piano keys and it is using a white vinyl eraser and rubbing it down all the white keys ensuring that every key is wiped independently to avoid the eraser bits getting inside the keys. You may also use yogurt or mayonnaise for whitening the ivory keys as these foods bleach the ivory effectively and gently. Keep in mind to buff the keys by using a dry cloth to remove all the food residues later. If you have an antique piano you may wish to take the opinion of a professional before attempting to clean the... --- - Published: 2020-08-05 - Modified: 2020-08-05 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/08/05/piano-tuning-tips-maintain-a-pitch-perfect-piano/ A piano is an ongoing investment and there is no way around piano tuning and servicing regularly. But the truth is that several piano owners wait for years or even decades before they undertake piano tuning. Therefore, some pianos are sadly never properly tuned. However, in most cases, it does not mean that people do not care in most cases. In most cases, the piano owners just do not know that piano tuning regularly is necessary. All significant parts of the piano can be found inside the instrument but you never see them until the piano tuner has arrived. Although the piano mechanics are pretty complex, the overall science behind piano tuning and pitching is straightforward. Getting a piano tuning technician A good piano tuning technician can work on all pianos regardless of its condition and can bring any instrument back to life. However, an honest technician will also inform you if it is not worth fixing it. Many times the amount of work required to fix the piano costs more than the value of the piano. But many times the piano has a sentimental value to the owner and a good technician will understand this and get the repair job done. Here are some easy ways of finding out the piano technicians in your neighborhood. Piano technician’s guild. Referrals. Recommendations from the piano maker. Piano cleaning fundamentals 1. Dust removal: Dust, believe it or not, has a massive effect on the tuning of a piano. The soundboard can get covered with dust and it reduces the projection and the overall quality of tone from the board. It is similar to having a dust layer on top of your nose when you are trying to breathe or speak. The experienced tuners will know about this and will have their vacuum cleaners and cleaning systems with them. You need to clean, Strings. Soundboard. 2. Working on the hammers: Hammers are the second-largest factors towards the sound of the piano. They are made from felt which is a tough material but over time grooves develop on it. Healthy hammers will be round and will not have any grooves on them. When there are deep grooves on the hammer they have to be filed. Whether the hammers need any work or not will be decided by the piano technician. They can tell be the difference in tone while playing the instrument. The different ways of fixing the issue are, Filing the grooves. Mating the hammers to the string. Voicing. 3. Keyboard testing: Good technicians will take the time out to play all the 88 keys chromatically. During the process, they will check if there is any clicking noise in the keys, whether all keys are falling to the same depth, whether all hammers are reaching the strings, and if the keys are resetting with the same rate. Different actions while testing the keyboard include, Testing hammer swings. Checking all the screws and nuts. Piano tuning If the pianos are not in perfect tune... --- - Published: 2020-06-23 - Modified: 2020-06-23 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/06/23/learn-piano-skills-from-home/ Now that many of us have extra time on our hands due to the Coronavirus, one may consider picking up a new skill. If you have always wanted to play the piano, now is the time to learn piano skills. Learning piano from home is one way that you can stay safe while pursuing a dream. Many individuals have opted to learn piano skills from home using different methods. Some of these methods are free, while others do have a fee associated with them. The first method to learn piano skills from home is by watching videos. What is great about videos is that you can watch them whenever you desire and can go back to review if need be. One site someone may desire to locate is Kanopy, which has 36 sessions on how to learn the keyboard. We like this one as a PDF accompanies it, so you can work at your own pace. During these sessions, you will learn piano skills such as basic rhythms and fingers, then move to chords and arpeggios. More advanced sessions include lessons on the Sonata form. Perhaps one of the reasons we like Kanopy is that it may be offered free from your local library. If you are interested, ask your librarian if they offer this. If not, perhaps they may be willing to look into it for you. Some libraries have even removed the residency restriction. Various libraries are using self-registration passes during COVID-19. Play Piano and Keyboards is a second set that contains 16 hours on how to learn piano skills. Lynda. com is the site where it will show you a better back position, hand poses, how to perform a melody or discover a new tune, and jazz improvising directions. This site can also be accessed through various libraries. If you learn better by books, you may consider a collection of ebooks called OverDrive. These learn piano skills from the home method are available at many libraries. OverDrive also has videos and audio that may help a new piano learner. If you are just learning piano skills, Alfred Music can help by offering books that are digitally available with video courses. These books will allow you to work at your own pace, causing it to be simpler for those that use the phrase “slow and steady wins the race”. There is also software and apps that one may wish to consider when learning to play the keyboard. Mobile devices can utilize the Piano Academy app, which provides sheet melody and essential keyboard skills. The first week is complimentary, with a monthly agreement after this session. Flowkey is also an app that needs a subscription to utilize it. If you purchase various Yamaha digital pianos, three free months are included with the purchase. If you have decided to learn piano from home, in Tampa, Fl, consider contacting Tampa Piano Tuning for all your service needs. We can not only help with tuning your piano, but voicing, rebuilding, and action... --- - Published: 2020-05-12 - Modified: 2020-05-12 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/05/12/tuning-kimball-grand-in-lutz-fl/ Tampa Piano Tuning has completed tuning Kimball Grand in Lutz, FL. Piano keys were out of alignment and needed an adjustment. Simple fix, but time-consuming. The customer was very happy and added a great tip. --- - Published: 2020-04-22 - Modified: 2020-04-23 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/04/22/how-playing-piano-can-be-good-for-your-health/ We are going through a period in which many people are beginning to learn new activities, in an attempt to somehow forget that they need to spend more time at home than ever, but also stay sane during the lockdown. After all, it would be a shame to not use this completely free time constructively! And it appears that playing piano is one of the most popular activities of the moment, whether it’s done on a real piano or a virtual one, thanks to this magnificent thing called technology, and planning to do the real deal as well, after the lockdown. This is a great decision as, besides being incredibly relaxing, playing piano can also have some until now unknown health benefits! Curious already? Let’s find out more details about this... It can increase cognitive development According to several scientific studies, creating music can stimulate the human brain in specific ways that other activities cannot. The explanation is simple: multiple neurological pathways are connected while in front of the piano, to eventually use them in other disciplines, like science, math, or even engineering. Develops eye-hand coordination Considering that while playing piano you need to carefully read the music sheets but also work with your fingers over the keys, both of them need to be highly coordinated. Obviously, doing this repeatedly can only have positive benefits, even if we are talking about sight reading drills. It reduces anxiety and stress Picture this: it has been a ridiculously busy day and everything you want is to unwind a bit. Sounds familiar, we know. Well, you should know that sitting down and playing piano for a few moments can help you refocus, relieve stress, and even lower blood pressure a bit. You will feel good after playing, trust us! Has great effects on your mental health Mental health can be considered one of the biggest issues of the 21st century and many individuals are dealing with them, without even being aware of this. It has been proven that pianists can see a reduction in depressions and its symptoms, but also other mental health issues. We are talking about social pain or loneliness, which can be kept under control when playing piano. It develops fine motor skills Finally, let’s not forget that while playing piano, your hands can move efficiently over the keys only with consistent practice. It really does not matter if you have bigger or smaller hands! With enough training, you will end up having all the agility you need to play even the most demanding compositions. Nevertheless, you just cannot play a piano that has not adjusted properly. This is where I come in. My name is Phil Fronha and ever since 1992, I am a piano tuner and technician based in Tampa Bay. Whether you are after rebuilding, action regulation, voicing, or tuning, I am here to help! Picture Credit: Pixabay --- - Published: 2020-04-08 - Modified: 2020-09-23 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/04/08/tune-up-of-25-year-old-kawai-grand-piano-by-tampa-piano-tuning-phil-frohna/ Kawai Grand 25 years old but in very good shape. Lady who had me tune the piano heard about me from a friend. Tuned up well and no repairs needed. This piano was tuned in Weeki Wachee, FL. --- - Published: 2020-03-24 - Modified: 2020-03-24 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/03/24/6-piano-maintenance-tips-for-a-long-life/ Several mechanical parts are used for making this organic instrument called piano including wood, felt, wool, and cloth. The material used for the instrument expands and contracts to depend on the climatic conditions. Every time the instrument is played there is a shift in its internal working. It means pianos go out of tune and there is every likelihood that its sound may change in the future. Here are some tips for piano maintenance and taking good care of your piano to keep it sounding at its best. 1. Select a proper position: You need to position the piano in your room such that it will receive a fairly stable temperature condition that keeps it well maintained. One might have heard people mentioning the term choose an internal wall. It is because the internal walls are likely to be more stable in terms of temperature than compared to the external walls. 2. Keep room temperature to normal: One of the important piano maintenance consideration is not to expose the piano to the variations in temperature such as heat and cold. Avoid keeping the piano on the wall that is facing west. This is because these walls are getting hot in summer and can lead to variation in temperature. Keep the piano away from the heater, air conditioner, and open fireplaces. 3. Keep the piano well hydrated: When the piano maintenance is about an older piano which is made around the 1930s it is a good idea to place a water bowl near the bottom of the instrument. It keeps the piano hydrated and will be helpful when the machine is expanding and contracting with its wooden components. A little margarine container will be perfect. Keep checking the instrument to see whether a top-up is necessary. 4. Tune the machine regularly: Pianos have to be tuned regularly. It is recommended that you tune the machine annually by using a professional tuner. This piano tuner can also advise you about what is needed for the piano in case it hasn’t been tuned in a while. 5. Regulate the piano periodically: Another thing to remember about piano maintenance is that changes in wool, wood, felt, and cloth elements will affect the way the piano will play and also how it will sound. Regulation is an in-depth service for the instrument. Tuning is related to the pitch and concentrates on pins and strings. Regulation, on the other hand, means adjustment of mechanical parts of the piano. 6. Cleaning: When it is time to clean the piano there are 3 main sections you must pay attention to. The exterior of the cabinet, the interiors, and the keys. There is one important rule here. Keep the toast away from the instrument while cleaning the exterior. The elegant wood finish is beautiful and it is a good idea to use the polish that is designed for pianos. You can use a cloth for the purpose. The keys are cleaned similarly by using a damp cloth. It is... --- - Published: 2020-03-12 - Modified: 2020-03-12 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/03/12/old-piano-has-been-tuned-in-odessa-fl/ This piano was tuned by Phil Frohna 16 years ago. A customer's daughter has been playing it for 10 years and it was wickedly out of tune. A father thought he would become an instant piano tuner utilizing the smartphone app. After spending about 4 hours on his phone app, he decided he screwed it up enough and he contacted Tampa Piano Tuning. He is glad he still had Phil's business card. Hours after, the piano has been tuned and is ready to go. The piano was tuned in Odessa, Fl. If you need your piano to be tuned or repair call Phil Frohna at Tampa Piano Tuning at (813) 453-1077 or visit our website: https://tampapianotuning. com/ --- - Published: 2020-03-06 - Modified: 2020-03-06 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/03/06/the-samick-studio-upright-piano-has-been-tuned-in-brandon-fl/ The Samick Studio upright piano has been tuned and a few sticking piano keys have been fixed in Brandon, FL by Phil Frohna (Tampa Piano Tuning). --- - Published: 2020-02-18 - Modified: 2020-02-18 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/02/18/piano-placement-in-the-home/ Piano placement is very important in your home. After all, pianos are a large investment. So you want to make sure you find the perfect spot for this glorious musical instrument. Here we will discuss where the best places to put a piano include. First off, we advise you not to place your new piano by a window. Sure, you may want to play with the sun shining in on you. This is understandable. But the sun is not something that you want to pair up your piano with. The paint, wood, and varnish on the piano can all warp, discolor, or become damaged due to the sun’s bright rays. Climate change is something that you must think about when it comes to your keys. Are there fluctuations in the climate in any place in your home? If so, steer clear of placing your piano there. This would be any place that is close to a heating source, such as a fireplace or wood stove. This also includes air vents. You should strive to keep your piano away from the kitchen, as far as possible. Think about the extreme fluctuations in temperatures in this room. Hot from cooking breakfast, then cools down, heats back up from lunch or an afternoon of baking, then cools down. Suppertime could mean heating back up and then cooling back down overnight. These temperature changes are not good for a piano in the least. If there are any other humid areas of your home, such as a laundry room, be certain not to place your piano next to this room either. Think about placing your piano in a room where it will sound amazing. Looks are great for some things, but a piano’s true glory is how it sounds. Some like carpeted rooms because it mutes the sound. Others prefer rooms where there are tiled floors as the sound produced will sound more like the opera. No one can tell you where it will sound the best. Only you can make that decision. Pianos will look great in the corners of a room, especially a baby grand. However, if you have to move everything to one side of the room, making it look and feel cluttered, you may want to skip this. Should the only place be the corner, consider getting rid of some items to lessen the clutter. If you like the piano in the center of the room, you are saying you want to showcase the piano off. However, be certain there is room in the center for the piano. You should have ample room to get around the musical instrument without bumping into it or other things around it. One can always entertain the thought of placing a baby piano with the flat side against the wall too. Owning a piano is a wonderful investment. If you should have any questions about placement in your home, or about the instrument in general, consider contacting a professional such as Tampa Piano Tuning by... --- - Published: 2020-01-21 - Modified: 2020-01-21 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2020/01/21/why-your-piano-needs-a-piano-tuner/ Your piano is most likely very special to you. However, if you do not tune your piano on a regular basis, it will not sound as good as it should. Here we will discuss why your piano will need to see a piano tuner on a regular basis. When you see a piano tuner, the piano strings can be tightened and stretched. When a piano tuner does this, the pitch will be brought up to a frequency that vibrates just as it should. They will generally use piano tools and methods to tune your piano. Tools that are generally used include a tuning lever, commonly referred to a “hammer”, a tuning fork, various mutes, or an electronic tuning device. Now you may be thinking this sounds pretty simple and that perhaps you could learn to do it yourself. There are many people out there that have tuned their own piano. However, take this into consideration. There are about 230 strings in every piano. Each string is stretched to 150 to 200 pounds of pressure on average against a cast iron plate. This depends upon the thickness of the strings. There is a pull of between 18 and 20 tons by the time the wooden frame of the piano gets added into this! You will want to be sure to tune your piano to make it sound good. But you should also tune it so the string tension on the strings when added together is up to A440. It should also be equalized against the cast-iron plate and the soundboard. So, just how many times per year should you be turning your piano? Piano tuners recommend you do it three or four times for the first year. After this, you can do it one or two times per year. Unless you play more frequently, such as daily piano lessons or in a concert hall. In this case, you would want to do it more frequently. There are times during the year that may make the instrument go out of tune. One such reason for this is when the humidity rises. When this occurs, the soundboard will most likely swell. If this happens, the crowned shape increases in size. The strings will begin to stretch, giving them a higher pitch. When the weather changes to being dry, the soundboard will flatten. This, in turn, lowers the tension on the strings, which causes them to go flat. The pitches will not equally change, so, therefore, every piano goes out of tune. Normal playing of the piano will result in the piano needing to be tuned. The more you play it, the more often it will need to be tuned. Moving a piano can also cause a piano to go out of tune. If you are moving to a new house, it is advised that once you move, you allow the piano to set for a few months to acclimate itself to its new climate, and then call in a professional to tune the... --- - Published: 2019-10-16 - Modified: 2019-10-16 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/10/16/how-to-protect-the-piano-during-transportation/ The presence of a piano in the home always gives guests incredible impressions. A powerful tool impresses with a soft sound. Many in their homes have a piano. Your piano is an important tool and proper caring will keep it safe while you are moving. Preparing the piano for movement is necessary to avoid damage. How to move a musical instrument safely Moving always raises many questions, but when it comes to transporting a dimensional tool, they are even more. Specialists advise you to use the services of a moving company that has everything you need for a comfortable move. In some cases, the desire to save leads to damage to the piano. You should contact a company that deals with the transportation of dimensional musical instruments, offices, private houses, and apartments. Specialists have all the necessary tools for fast and safe transportation of things. Preparing the piano for movement is necessary to avoid damage. Your piano is an important tool and proper caring will keep it safe while you are moving. You may be tempted to prepare, especially if you are busy with other aspects of home traffic. Avoid this temptation and carefully prepare the piano for transportation. Before moving the piano to a new place, it must be partially disassembled and packaged qualitatively. This secures the musical instrument in integrity. But not only packaging is important. No less attention is paid to choosing the truck to carry it. First of all, you need to disassemble some moving parts. This will reduce its weight. It is worth remembering: it is forbidden to remove a shock mechanism because it is too soft and it is very easy to damage. Required disassembly covers the keys and fronts. After removing the items you need to pack them and piano. To pack a musical instrument, use packaging agents and tie rigging ties to the foot that protects against the impact on the steps. The most difficult stage of transportation is its descent/rise. It is important to remember that it is strictly forbidden to tilt and flip the piano. This can lead to a break in the resonance deck strings. The weight and dimensions do not allow the musical instrument to be placed in a passenger elevator, and not all buildings are loaded. The choice of a car is equally important, as it must be equipped with everything necessary for safe transportation. Trucks need to have special openings in the body for reliable fixing of the piano. This prevents it from turning over while driving. After installing the piano in a new place, you have to wait at least 6 hours. Then you need to call the wizard to check the settings and integrity of the tool. Try not to move the piano after its final installation, as it can negatively affect both its external state and sound. Picture Credit: Pixabay --- - Published: 2019-07-17 - Modified: 2019-10-16 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/07/17/benefits-of-playing-piano-for-your-body-and-mind/ There are many musical instruments, all of them are unique and have their own characteristics. The piano is a unique and most perfect instrument, it is an orchestra in one musical instrument, and if you master playing the piano, you will not be difficult to master the skills of playing any other musical instrument. The virtuoso playing the piano captivates the listeners, because the range of sound of such instruments as piano. No musical instrument has such a wide tonal spectrum as the piano has. Many people are scared away by the size of the piano, but if you consider that mastering the piano, you will gain power over the most fascinating and versatile musical instrument, the size of the instrument fades before its merits. Great benefits of learning the piano for your child Playing the piano is nice and useful! While playing the piano, hands and fingers are in constant motion. On the child's body, it has a health and developmental effects. Training the fingers of the child’s hands is important, because the overall development of the child depends on it. Playing the piano develops in the child the motor skills of the fingers and prepares the hand for writing, enhances brain activity and improves the child's speech abilities. The motor and muscular development of the child and oral speech closely interact with each other. Therefore, playing the piano has a beneficial effect on the development of the child’s body. Children of lower grades, at the time of rapid speech, when the child wants to tell something, manifest uneven speech development and difficulty breathing. It is difficult for a child to control breathing at the moment of conversation, when the desire to speak, is ahead of thoughts. Playing the piano brings up the child's sense of rhythm and forms the proper breathing. While playing the piano, the child connects the voice, playing the piano and singing make various functions of the brain work, coordinating their work with each other. On the one hand, playing the piano and singing improves brain activity, and on the other hand, improving brain activity contributes to the development of brain and muscle memory, which develops not only the piano skills, but also improves the development of the school curriculum and educational sciences. Piano lessons develop a child's creativity and analytical thinking. Regular piano lessons have a positive effect on the possibilities of learning foreign languages, learning languages is easier and more, and on the coordination of movements of the child. Children receive not only musical education, but also grow mentally healthy people. The benefits of playing piano The beneficial effect of music on the human body is confirmed by many medical scientists. Music is not only a constant companion in life, in work and in life, it is a means of treating both mental and internal diseases. The benefits of playing the piano for an adult are not much different from the beneficial effects of playing the piano on a child’s body. Playing the... --- - Published: 2019-06-12 - Modified: 2019-06-12 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/06/12/why-you-need-to-work-with-the-same-piano-tuner/ An interesting concept that is evidently evolving around the world is the principle of the instrument's operation by one tuner, it is connected with many benefits of the client: customers often forget when they tune their instrument, so it is convenient for the client to make the obligation to remember the periodicity of tuning lay on the tuner's side (regular tuning cycles have a major impact on the stabilization of the outfit), customers often forget what was repaired in a given piano, so keeping the so-called service instrument card by one tuner helps to control expenses and service processes, clients who use permanent services from one professional tuner are primarily educated about how to use the instrument properly so that it can be used without major repairs for many years, being a regular, long-term client of one tuner, we will certainly get special discounts for services provided, using the services of a single tuner, certainly a few years in advance, we will be informed about upcoming periodic repairs or renovations, which will allow for a quiet planning of costs, if anything goes wrong with the instrument, it is known to whom you can have comments, in the case of repairs carried out by many different professionals, this aspect is distracted, the tuner often becomes a friend of the house. The main privilege for a piano tuning company to permanently service one client (apart from the client-tuner's personal relations and relationships) is to reduce the costs of obtaining a job, and the actual, real opportunity to ensure that a given instrument under the care of a tuner is always kept in good condition and he gave real joy, pleasure to its users. Only the use of pianos maintained in a good mood and stable high-quality technical condition ensures long-term service life of instruments and minimizes operating costs, eliminating expensive repairs and unnecessary repairs. Picture Credit: Pixabay --- - Published: 2019-05-22 - Modified: 2019-05-22 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/05/22/how-to-arrange-your-home-with-a-piano/ Grand piano and piano give the house a special atmosphere. Even if none of the adult members of the family regularly play musical instruments, children, guests, guest musicians can play. And if the tool is inoperative, it can play a key role in interior design. How to properly arrange the home piano? Pay attention to how the pianos are located in the homes of professional musicians. Their instruments with good sound, well-known companies and, as a result, are very expensive. And the place for them is chosen in accordance with certain requirements. Piano can not be placed next to any heating devices, otherwise the wooden case will crack, and the instrument will quickly lose the line and the beauty of the sound. Deploy the tool sideways to the window Moreover, choose the right side of the orientation of the piano - the light should fall on the left side. Microclimate - wet and cool It is better if there is a window or a balcony near the piano. The air in the room where the musical instruments are located must be moist and cool. If you often can not ventilate the room, you should take care of a humidifier. Best place - bay window Ideally, if the piano is placed in a bay window - thus, due to the arrangement of the windows in a semicircle, all conditions are met at once: good lighting, suitable humidity and temperature. Tools for beginners If you have a synthesizer or a compact electronic piano with a hammer mechanism, you can ignore the rules of orientation. The system supports electronics, and the dimensions allow you to fit them into any small niche or even into the passage rooms. Electronic pianos are good for the initial stage of learning music - it is their most often now chosen for children's rooms. The volume of the sound is adjustable, it is possible to work on such instruments with headphones. That is, the sound will not interfere with neighbors and even sleeping family members. However, over time, if the child is making progress, you still have to get a real tool. The methods of sound extraction on the present and electronic piano are very different. Dust - the enemy of good sound It is not recommended to put a regular instrument on the libraries. The acoustic properties of sound in a room filled with books are lost. He will be deaf and dull. In addition, book dust penetrates into the instrument and settles on the strings, which is highly undesirable. Piano as a piece of furniture Another thing, if the piano performs an exclusively decorative function. If you inherited a tool that is impossible to play for technical reasons (the boards were cracked, the plates were lost, the covering keys), and there is no desire or opportunity to restore the sound and appearance, try to make an art object out of it. Let grandfather's piano become a conversation piece - a thing that all guests are discussing.... --- - Published: 2019-02-20 - Modified: 2019-02-20 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/02/20/tips-for-proper-piano-maintenance/ If we are holders of an acoustic keyboard instrument (digital piano or piano), we must ensure its good functioning. A properly cared and preserved instrument will repay you with a beautiful sound and will serve you for many years. The instrument left in a random place, long unused and unfinished, can lose its sound qualities, and then restoring it to its former glory can be difficult and expensive. What should we remember about using an acoustic piano? The piano is very sensitive to vibrations. Its frequent shifting or unskilled transport may harm both the tuning (string tuning) and the mechanism. The piano reacts to the sun, drafts, changes in temperature and air humidity. Wood, which is the building material of the piano, "works", i. e. absorbs and releases moisture, expands and shrinks due to environmental changes. It may cause the instrument to become detached, so it should stay away from the radiator, fireplace, windows, places directly exposed to sunlight or, alternatively, cold and damp places. At the same time, after each sudden change of conditions (e. g. heating season, longer heating failure, flooding) the piano should be watched by the tuner. The piano has a wooden, varnished casing that does not tolerate accidental chemical cleaning preparations. For its care and cleaning the keyboard, you can use a damp cloth and then wipe the surface dry. You can also buy special preparations for cleaning the pianos. The piano's interior is a very sensitive mechanism and you should not make any repairs and manipulate the instrument's parts. Do not get dust in the piano, dirt, water or small objects. We avoid touching the strings with fingers because they react with sweat and can be destroyed. For safety, we do not put flowers, mugs with water, candles and objects on the piano cover, which may, for example, inspire children to climb the instrument. If the instrument, in addition to the sound qualities, is to be a room decoration, it must be protected against scratching and dirt (by children, animals), placed in a peaceful place, so as not to expose it to rubbing and bruising. The keyboard cap should be lowered when the instrument is not in use to protect the keys. The piano should be, on average, once every six months tuned by a professional who will assess the technical condition of the instrument at the same time. An instrument that has been stored in a place such as an attic, warehouse or basement should be particularly carefully examined by the tuner. A neglected piano could become a habitat of bark beetles, moths or molds, it could have dried up and cracked, rusted etc. Also after transport (e. g. moving a professional expert is necessary, or everything ... game) Piano playing obviously leads to its use, so it is worth to protect them against unnecessary exploitation (too aggressive hitting the keys, leaving unattended children with the instrument, improper use of the keyboard, etc. ). A piano treated with respect, regularly checked in terms... --- - Published: 2019-01-16 - Modified: 2019-01-16 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2019/01/16/is-it-worth-it-to-learn-piano-if-you-dont-plan-to-get-good-at-it/ Did you know that learning to play keyboard instruments can be a very effective form of self-improvement? ! Playing the piano is the most complicated activity done with the hands that humanity has come up with. Compare this to the surgeon's work - widely regarded as extremely complicated. It requires great precision, so-called of a hand, experience and, of course, 100% knowledge of medicine. However, in terms of manual it is far from playing keyboard instruments. And now the best! What do you think of this fact in practice? Well, that learning to play keyboard instruments is one of the best ways to improve your mind! You will ask: but what exactly can I get out of it? Oh please! Below is a list of benefits. The degree of complexity of playing the piano makes the mind - to overcome it - must work at its highest level. The consequence of this is, of course, the rapid increase in its efficiency. Another benefit of learning to play is to improve your attention. At an advanced level, playing the piano is like meditation! You certainly noticed that a professional pianist at the concert plays as if in a trance. His concentration and focus on one activity are close to ideal - he becomes one with music and the instrument. Is this effect not similar to those that are achieved by practicing yoga, Zen or other systems that use meditation? The spectacular result of this level of advancement in mastering the instrument is to play an hour of the concert that lasts without a single mistake. Think - thousands of notes and not a single mistake! Of course, as in any other field of self-improvement, this level is achieved by only a few. But let there be a fact in your consciousness that there are such people, and so it is possible. Now let's get down to the ground a little. Do not think about it that you may not be able to achieve such skills in the game. Time and energy devoted to learning will certainly not be wasted. The work you do will enrich your personality, improve your mind, organize your psyche and improve your hands. It is worth noting that playing the piano requires a high level of movement coordination. Every hand and every finger have their tasks to do and - most importantly - they have to do it precisely with each other in cooperation. If you have not yet tried, believe me, that it is difficult at the beginning. Another effect of undertaking (and continuing! ) Learning to play keyboard instruments is to increase the level of regularity at work. And yet this is a very important feature, without it you will learn nothing but sitting in a chair and watching TV. An additional benefit of learning to play the piano is memory exercise. When learning a song, we use notes with the help of the composer. However, along with the progress of science, the phenomenon of... --- - Published: 2018-12-19 - Modified: 2018-12-19 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/12/19/ray-charles-pianist-songwriter-singer/ September 23, 1930 in the small town of Albany, Georgia, the Robinsons family was born a boy Ray Charles Robinson. When he was several months old, they moved to Florida, the town of Gainesville, where his younger brother was born. When the father left the family, the mother began to educate the brothers alone. Childhood In 3 years the young musician sang songs, imitating the musician from the cafe, who taught him playing the piano. When Ray was 5, his brother drowned before his eyes, and a year later Charles himself became blind. Doctors put glaucoma in the 1930s, it was incurable. Mother taught him to do without the help of others. Ray Charles said that he does not remember how to see it, only his mother's image and color remained in his memory. When Ray was 7 years old, in 1937, he entered the school for blind children, where he was taught to read words and notes on the Braille system. Having finished it in 1945, Ray Charles played the clarinet, trombone, organ, piano and saxophone. These were the musician's first steps towards creating his own music. So not having finished school, after the death of his mother, Ray traveled around Florida in search of work. By the age of 16, he had become a professional tune, performing with groups of musicians all over Florida. Youth years In 1948, Ray moved to Seattle, where he played in cafes and clubs. Immediately he founded his first project in the style of jazz-blues The Maxim Trio. He first tried drugs. He himself said that it refers to the type of people who realize that this passion will lead to death, but still want to learn, using even more. The music was in his blood. He lived it and recorded from the age of 17. Let his first records not become popular, Ray created something new, combined several directions in music. After ten years, the songs of genius became popular. In 1951, they became interested in record companies, and he released his first hit, Mess Around. Ray Charles invented a new direction of soul. He quickly gained popularity, but some of his songs were forbidden to listen, arguing that they have sexual overtones. This did not stop his popularity, although he himself went into depression and began to use heavy drugs. Peak of popularity In 1961, Ray canceled a concert in his native state of Georgia because of racism. He spoke there years later, when the law compared the rights of blacks to white people. The peak of Ray Charles's popularity came in the 1960s. It was the dawn of a genius. He dedicated the song to Busted Kennedy after his death. Changed rock and soul, carried away with jazz and pop music. It was a hard period of rehabilitation from drug addiction and scandals. Almost until his death, he wrote music and sang. His concerts were in demand, and the songs are always in the first charts. He gave concerts in... --- - Published: 2018-11-28 - Modified: 2018-11-28 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/11/28/why-learning-music-theory-is-important-for-all-pianists/ The music theory is not a new concept, it appeared quite a long time ago. The music theory was taught to pianists and composers, even when learning to play the piano compositions enjoyed maximum popularity (in the 18th and 19th centuries) to enable them to understand the structure and functioning of music. The musical theory, in turn, directs the pianist when composing music, helps to combine various components and techniques. The theory of music teaches them to understand notations, letters, diagrams, chords and other symbols that an ordinary person may not understand. The pianist must perfectly know these signs and symbols in order to better understand, play or compose melodies, rhythms and tones with the help of a piano. The importance of music theory The theory of music is important for better mastering the skills of playing the piano, composing music and improvisation. Any person who knows the theory well will be able to learn to play the instrument faster than someone who has no idea about the theory. There are several reasons and advantages that can be gained by studying the music theory. Here we consider several important aspects: You start learning faster! Getting knowledge of the music theory, over time, you realize that the random pieces of music that you come across are not just notes. You will begin to recognize them in the sequences of chords and scales. Notes will no longer be scattered before you in a mess - you will begin to memorize them as a certain sequence. If you are a young beginner, you will perform simple theoretical tasks, in which you need to name notes and dynamics. This can be done in the form of an exercise or a game (for example, with cards). You will be able to memorize these lessons, and this will help you to read the notes, which is impossible without knowledge of the theory. You become a good performer in the orchestra! If, for example, you start playing in the orchestra of your school or at some other performance, knowing the music theory will make you a more valuable member of the team. If all orchestra musicians know the theory, their performance will be much better, as they will be able to better understand the notes and stay on the same wave and in one key. This will improve your critical listening skills! Just listening to music is a simple matter, whereas listening critically is like doing magic. Learning music theory will improve your critical listening skills. You can better understand and discuss what you hear. A musical performance involving pianos includes various major and minor series, nuances, melodies and other aspects that only a knowledgeable person will be able to identify. When you learn to identify music and discuss it critically, you will approach the level of a specialist. This will help understand and play difficult fragments! We do not say that studying music theory will make difficult fragments of works easy, but you will definitely find... --- - Published: 2018-10-17 - Modified: 2018-10-17 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/10/17/learn-piano-easily-and-effectively/ Learning to play any musical instrument is quite a challenge, which will require a huge amount of patience and perseverance. It is better, first of all, to get acquainted at least casually with a musical note, but not all instruments require its knowledge. For example, learning guitar, offers an alternative, simple option - tablature. However, in the case of the piano, things are somewhat more complicated. Suppose that the musical notation has already been studied, or at least some idea of it, you have. But the trouble is, the hands do not listen at all and it's not clear what the matter is, whether the brain is not able to control its actions, or something else. This is one of the most common problems encountered by beginning musicians engaged in self-study. The confusion in the fingers can be easily avoided if one learns their numbering and correct position. Initially, it is difficult to understand for which notes, each specific finger responds. An excellent option for the game, will be children's songs, notes in which, most often, and have an indication of the required finger. Gradually raising its level, the correct position will become a habit and hands, will cease to be "hooks". This is only the first small step to mastering such a complex instrument as a piano. Correct posture is the key to success Experienced teacher, constantly draws attention to the student's landing, correcting or correcting it. First of all, the height is important. If the position is incorrectly chosen, the hands of the musician can be overextended, which will entail a number of complex problems, ranging from simple edemas and ending with serious diseases. Installation of the chair is made strictly in the middle of the instrument. The standard piano has 8-9 acts, when placing the seat in the center, the first octave will be directly in front of the pupil. However, the creators of this wonderful tool made an excellent hint. The position of the chair must be strictly opposite to the two pedals, so that access to them is not hampered. If everything is done correctly, then the musician will be able to cover the whole range of sounds that can be squeezed out of the piano. Hand position The next most important point concerns the correct placement of hands over the keys. Unlike playing the guitar, where the brush is primarily used (the mediator is a variable stroke), the piano requires the owner to work the entire hand from the shoulder to the fingers. A good teacher knows how easy and simple to draw an analogy between the correct work of the hand and the droplet. It should be imagined that the water begins to drain from the shoulder and to the fingers. In this case, the hand must take a falling position. It is important to note that with direct play, both hands perform the same functions. This somewhat simplifies the whole process, because on the same violin, one needs to work properly with... --- - Published: 2018-07-18 - Modified: 2018-07-18 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/07/18/express-your-creativity-through-playing-the-piano-yamaha/ Can I make money on my musical talents? You can, if you do not wait for someone to ask the question: "What can you do? " And offer a lot of lucrative options, assessing your abilities. Realize yourself, pave the way to fame and recognition, demonstrate the ability to create musical hits. Modern technology will help novice composers and professional musicians. Young composers serve attention and good musical equipment Many composers realize themselves on musical exchanges: they act in tandem with unknown poets and create beautiful songs that become not only the result of creativity, but also an object for sale to young and still unknown performers. Who knows, it's possible that your compositions will become hits. Do not put the written works on the shelf, if they already exist, show them to people, the composers are very much in demand and have a stable income. You need a good synthesizer. Yamaha will be a very suitable option, with its acoustic sound you can "attach" and a failed (in your opinion) work. The recordings for the guitar do not impress the poets, practice shows that not all of them can catch the story of a melody played on a regular string instrument. A poorly presented topic for a long time is looking for its master pen. The Yamaha digital piano will become an entire orchestra in your hands, a set of acoustic timbres, plus the effect of "Chorus" and "Reverb" will help convey the mood of the musical composition to listeners. With the help of polyphony and the function of imposing timbres, you can convey the inner feeling that has arisen when creating a melody. The melody will necessarily affect the subtly sensitive songwriter. You can choose to work with professional models of Yamaha pianos with an updated keyboard and built-in tone generator Real Grand Expression. The cost of a digital piano will pay off very quickly, the perfect sound of the instrument will cause the desire to create new works, and a large number of works increases the chances of success. If you are lucky and interested in the music performed by the performer, then you need to do an arrangement, without high-quality equipment it is impossible. Do not stop at the achieved results, move forward, approving pats on the shoulder and recognition from friends - it's great, but you need to strive for more. The Yamaha piano will help you realize your creativity. Image credit: stevepb --- - Published: 2018-06-20 - Modified: 2018-06-20 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/06/20/why-do-we-like-to-dance/ For some people, dance is fun and a pleasant pastime, for someone - a way to lose weight and gain flexibility, someone uses dance for self-expression. Some (more often psychologists) by the way a person dances can determine his personality characteristics and problems using dance as a diagnostic technique. For some women and men, dance is a tool for seduction. Are dances useful for health? Most answer "yes", implying the use of physical exertion for certain muscles, spine, cardiovascular system, development of coordination and endurance. And they will be right. However, very few people know that dances can help in the prevention and treatment of mental imbalances, neuroses, the disclosure of internal resources, the knowledge of oneself and others through body language. Anxiety, numerous fears, depression, unstable self-esteem, self-doubt, strong inner tension, neuroses - this is far from a complete list of problems of mental health of modern citizens. Most of the population prefers to run away from problems, rather than solve them (alcohol, talking in the kitchen with friends). Someone is running to a hobby, someone to work. The advanced part of the population, realizing the presence of these problems, appeals to a psychotherapist or psychologist. How do I help dance in overcoming mental disorders? The influence of dance on the psyche has been noticed since primitive times, when with the help of ritual motions under the monotonous sounds of the first musical instruments a person introduced himself into an unusual resource state for achieving certain goals (hunting or war). At first, there was a monotonous rhythm that built the structure, helped to concentrate. With time, the rhythms became larger, and now there are a lot of them. Some of them help to relax, and some on the contrary activate and mobilize. It is no accident that at different times of life we like that music that resonates with our inner state. Considering music and dance in the medical aspect, one can not help recalling that in traditional Chinese medicine (from the 3rd century BC to the present day) different musical instruments are used to treat bodily and mental disorders. This resonates with modern music therapy, when listening to certain musical compositions is offered for treatment. And if more specifically, then in psychotherapy there is a direction that works with the psyche through the body-oriented therapy. Dance-motor therapy combined the influence of music and dance on the human body. The psychic and the body are interrelated: the more rigid the body, the more flexibility of thinking and, as a consequence, higher stress tolerance. Dances have no age-related restrictions. Dancing exercises increase the production of endorphins (pleasure hormones), which helps to cope with depressive states. When a person dances, he realizes himself and others through the body, begins to feel his limitations and work with them. He learns to accept his body and the body of another, as a value that does not depend on form and appearance. It's working with personal boundaries, realizing where my borders end and the... --- - Published: 2018-05-29 - Modified: 2018-05-29 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/05/29/where-is-the-best-place-in-the-house-to-put-a-piano/ In order to choose the most suitable place for installing the piano, you need to consult with experts or with the piano tuner. It should be noted that acoustics are influenced, for example, from what material the floor and walls in the room are made, and also what specific fabrics (drapes) and carpets are used in the interior of your apartment or private house. The quality of the sound of a musical instrument depends also on the overall acoustics of the room. The piano must be set so that the sound from it emanates directly into the room itself. During installation of the piano in a residential building, several very important conditions must be taken into account: first of all, it is the temperature and relative humidity of the air, which should be relatively constant. It would not be entirely correct to strictly limit the temperature and humidity parameters in the room where the piano is located. But it should be noted that their stability is very important. When choosing the place of installation of a musical instrument, it is necessary to remember that the master-tuner you will invite to serve your piano will need freedom of movement. For this purpose, approximately two feet of free space should be left of the keyboard. Many people are interested in the question, where is it best to install your musical instrument taking into account the microclimate. It is important to know that the piano is made primarily of natural, special organic materials. They have undergone the necessary pre-treatment to ensure that the tool has served you as long as possible. The pianos react to fluctuations in humidity and the temperature of the room in which they are located. Constant, significant changes in the microclimate make it just necessary to more frequent, regular maintenance, and in extreme, severe cases can cause irreparable damage to your musical instrument. Pianos can be quite capricious, especially when it comes to taking care of them. Do not install the piano in close proximity to various sources of cold or heat. Under the influence of strong radiators or sunlight, wooden surfaces can fade, and the musical instrument heats up. Insufficiently insulated external walls have a rather negative effect on the microclimate itself, provoking temperature fluctuations and frequent changes in air humidity in a residential area. Keep in mind that the constant air circulation, for example, due to various drafts or due to the full operation of the air conditioner, can very quickly lead to cracking and delamination of the wood. The resonance deck can crack, the felt of the hammers risks being saturated with moisture, because of the influence of temperature fluctuations and humidity, the pegs and the string of the musical instrument can stop holding the system. To inflict all sorts of harm on the piano can also be a direct, insignificant effect of various heat sources. The wooden case will experience additional load, and excessive drying it will cause damage to the tool. For the same... --- - Published: 2018-04-25 - Modified: 2018-04-25 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/04/25/the-effect-of-study-music-on-human-health-and-brain-growth/ Music lessons or learning a game on any musical instrument can positively influence the development of your brain in many ways. This is not just a theory; This has been proven in a number of scientific studies and works carried out on this subject. It has been proved that music has a magical effect on the development of the human brain (including the ability to logic and sensory perception). Even small children who were given music classes show changes in the brain's work: they improve listening and processing skills, which helps them to achieve greater success, for example, in studying. Nevertheless, we do not want to say that all parents should give children music lessons without thinking about their preferences. Forced learning can also lead to negative outcomes. Let's see how learning music can improve and positively influence the development of the human nervous system. Increase the amount of memory When a person begins to listen to music or learn to play a musical instrument, the volume of his memory usually increases. Studies show that if you constantly practice and learn to play a musical instrument with notes (for example, on a piano), you will see that your brain's work will improve. In addition, learning improves cognitive thinking and makes the work of brain control that controls motility more intense. Improves neuronal communication According to studies, musicians who have been learning to play a musical instrument or are constantly rehearsing have an increased number of neuronal connections in the corpus callosum (nerves connecting the hemisphere of the brain). This increased number of neuronal connections leads to the fact that parts of the brain are better connected to each other and can perform actions on visual and sensory synchronization much better than others. All of these effects are the result of systematic training that you perform when learning a game on a musical instrument. Activates brain work When you play or listen to music, some of your chemical compounds are formed in your brain. Thanks to their stimulating action, your brain starts to feel good and its performance improves. When playing or rehearsing in a band or in an orchestra, the level of the oxytocin hormone in your brain increases (this hormone is often referred to as the "confidence module"). Its effect allows us to create relationships with each other based on trust and kindness. Effect on the plasticity of the brain The plasticity of the brain is associated with changes occurring in the brain over the years. It has been established that music strongly influences its development. Those who have been studying music for many years, and those who began to engage in music from an early age, discovered an increased development of plasticity. Learning music can lead to positive changes in the structure of the brain over time, developing different primary auditory, visual and cognitive skills. It is noted that the musicians who have undergone a long study and many practicing, the plasticity of the brain is higher. Let... --- - Published: 2018-04-17 - Modified: 2018-04-18 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/04/17/piano-care-how-to-maintain-your-piano/ In order for the piano to serve for a long time, follow the rules of piano care: 1. The instrument should be kept in a room with an average room temperature within +68 degrees and with a humidity of 50%. It is important not to allow sudden fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Otherwise, the tool very quickly gets frustrated. Depending on the climatic and housing conditions, the temperature regime can be determined in the range from +53 to +77 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity of air from 40 to 60%. 2. Do not use a piano or grand piano in damp areas. You should avoid installing the instrument (especially the piano) between the windows of the room, in damp corners and outside walls. And of course, the proximity of the water supply and household appliances is unacceptable. The polishing of the tool can be spoiled by direct sunlight. Also it is necessary to protect it from drafts. 3. In very dry, hotly heated rooms, the instrument should be placed as far as possible from heating and heating devices. 4. From the humidity of the environment in a certain dependence is the hygroscopicity of wood and soft materials. A normal function of the moisture content in the instrument is to establish a constant optimum humidity of the room air. Therefore, in dry rooms it must be moistened. 5. When moving a piano, it is exposed to the sudden change in temperature and humidity, and therefore it should not be touched during 1 day, giving the opportunity to gradually get used to the room conditions. After that, dry cloth should wipe all the external surfaces, and then, opening the lids wipe everything inside the piano. 6. For better sound feedback, the instrument (especially the piano) should be placed not close to the wall, but at a distance. The tool should take a stable position. 7. Do not put heavy objects on the piano, and also cans of flowers and containers with water. This can lead to defects on the polished surface of the casing, as well as to moisture penetration inside the tool and damage to parts of the mechanism, keystoning, rusting of metal parts, etc. Also, items on the instrument can provoke a resonant phenomenon. This resonance phenomenon is very similar to the detuning of the instrument. In fact, a well-tuned note is mixed with a mechanical, noise vibration of this object. This vibration is like a buzzing or hissing, which prevents the correct and clean sound of the reproduced note. 8. Always play with the instrument on dry, clean hands. If dirty spots appear on the keys, they must be wiped off with a damp cloth, and then wipe dry properly. After classes on the instrument, you need to close the keyboard with the keyboard cover to avoid damaging the appearance of the keyboard, as well as the ingress of dust and foreign bodies onto the keyboard, which entail a keystoning. 9. With any movement of the instrument indoors, care... --- - Published: 2018-03-21 - Modified: 2018-03-21 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/03/21/why-its-important-to-tune-your-piano/ If you are an unprofessional musician, but a simple music lover, then you may not be able to notice the slightest frustration of playing the instrument. But it's unlikely that you will enjoy the piano playing, in which false notes will slip through. This is especially true for children who are sitting behind a frustrated instrument, will get used to poor-quality piano sound. This can not only affect their perception of music, but also distort their ears, dull his musical acuity. To prevent this from happening, the instrument must be regularly tuned by a professional master who will promptly bring the piano to a proper match and, possibly, at an early stage, identify possible malfunctions. Why set up a piano that works so well? This question is worried by most unprofessional. After all, the keys work, the pedals are pressed. Why then call a tuner and pay him not so little money? First, many people believe only the eyes, not the ears. Secondly, many "tuners" do not know the basic principles of piano work and their actions only upset what should have been brought to an excellent condition. Thirdly, the constant postponement of the tuning of the instrument as a result is delayed for many years, and the piano eventually comes to a deplorable state, from which only a very expensive master can deduce it. So, why do you need to set up the tool regularly? You will extend the term of his service. Allow your child's hearing to develop correctly. Give your child an additional incentive to make music. Get an incomparable pleasure from playing the piano. Image Credit: AlexanderStein --- - Published: 2018-02-27 - Modified: 2018-02-28 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/02/27/10-myths-learning-piano/ For more than three centuries people have known the pianoforte. And no wonder that during such a time, there are a lot of prejudices and myths associated with playing this musical instrument. How to play correctly? Than to amaze the listener? How to become a virtuoso? How many need to learn? . . These and many other questions always excited fans of the piano ... We decided to dispel a few myths, based, of course, primarily on modern trends and techniques, well, on our personal experience. Myth # 1 To learn how to play, I have to learn all my life. In reality, everything depends on your goals and objectives. If you have never played in your life, but want to learn how to play music for yourself, it's never too late to master the basic level of playing the instrument. And with this level you can already fully express yourself in music for the joy of yourself and others. Not everyone in our time wants to be able to play Liszt's sketches, and by the way, now there are enough examples of piano neoclassical composers who do not have a professional music education. Myth # 2 Before playing the instrument. I must learn a musical instrument and a solfeggio This is far from true, although if you want to master the instrument properly, musical notation, it is worthwhile to learn. The piano keyboard is not as scary and complex as it seems. It in fact consists of repeating elements, and all sounds are located on it linearly, from the lowest to the highest. Even the first time sitting down for the instrument you can play a simple melody by ear, without knowing the notes. It's like in childhood: you learned to talk before you learned the alphabet! Myth number 3 For the development of technology, it is necessary to play boring exercises for a long time This is a very serious misconception, which is encountered even by professional musicians. Mechanical exercises remain meaningless if your head does not participate in this process. In the head, and not in the fingers, a technical skill is developed. In other words, any training for the instrument must be performed consciously. And then, if you get to play some kind of exercise of Ganon, this does not guarantee that in your favorite work you will immediately get some complicated place. In this case, you can "turn" it into an "exercise" and work on a specific task: both technical and artistic . . And then at least 50% of "boredom" will go away, since. you will know the specific goal that you are working on at the moment. A difficult place in a work is better to "turn" into an exercise, and work on a specific task. Myth # 4 I have to practice a lot of hours This point is in line with the previous one. If you mechanically work for several hours a day, but without analyzing your actions, movements during the... --- - Published: 2018-01-23 - Modified: 2018-01-23 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2018/01/23/adult-beginner-start-learning-piano/ While visiting classical concerts, perhaps, many of us have a question: how to learn to play the piano, how the music is born under the skillful fingers of the accompanist and will I be able to play something like that? It is then that we say to ourselves "I want to" and begin to frantically look for opportunities to implement what was conceived. Where does this zeal come from? It turns out that scientists have found that music is the main source for enjoyment. What can we say about classical music and, in particular, about the piano, which managed to present many sweet minutes to more than one generation of listeners. And in order to not only manage electronic records, you can collect all your talent in a fist, more precisely in your fingers, and learn how to play the piano yourself. Is it possible at home? Why not! Firstly, the piano is much smaller than the piano. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to install it at home and practice at least 15 minutes a day, you will soon be able to master the basics of the game and surprise your loved ones with the beautiful performance of simple, and then more complex compositions. Next, we'll talk in more detail about how to learn how to play the piano and synthesizer, and also painlessly learn notes in the home. We also offer you to watch video lessons, which detail how to quickly learn to play the instrument from scratch. Often adults ask themselves the question: "How to learn to play the piano yourself? ". After all, to play music for yourself or for the public is just fine! And you are not to blame for the fact that for some reason your parents decided that as a child you should solve mathematical problems, visit dance clubs, go to a chess club, and leave music for others. But the dream of learning to play the piano can return at any age. And now only you decide whether to do or not, and how much time it will shine. How to learn to play the piano from scratch Sit right for the instrument, focus on this. Place the chair so that the arms are extended forward. It is necessary that the fingers rest against the open lid of the piano. Knees should be placed so that they do not rest on the piano, and the feet should be together and stand firm. Split your elbows to the sides, hands should be rounded, imagine that you seem to be only half-embracing the apple with your palm. How can one learn a virtuoso piano without a musical notation? Well, if you have a self-instruction manual, and better a good tutor, but now look at the keys: You can see the white and black keys, which are placed two and three times. You need three black keys, before the first find white - this is the first note of the scale. Every seven notes... --- - Published: 2017-12-19 - Modified: 2017-12-19 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/12/19/correct-posture-piano-playing/ As you know, a good foundation is the basis that the whole structure will be stable. In the case of the piano, this foundation will be the right landing for the piano, because even knowing the whole theory, you banal because of physical difficulties, you can not reveal the full potential. Initially, you may find it uncomfortable to play the proposed method, but believe me, they all came up with it not for the sake of someone's silly blessing - over time you realize that playing correctly is much simpler than the way it throws itself into the head. It's all about self-control and nothing more. Before starting to study the musical terms and definitions when passing the lessons of our Self-educator, remember these rather simple rules - the main thing is, do not be embarrassed that there are quite a few of them: 1) Correct landing for the piano: - support on the legs; - straight back; - lowered shoulders. 2) Hold your elbows: they should not interfere with your game, all the weight of the hand should go to the fingertips. Imagine that you have an air balloon under your arms. 3) Movement of hands should be free, smooth, do not need to allow sharp jerks. Try to imagine that you are supposed to swim under the water. There is another very effective way for people with strong nerves: put on a coin of any merit on the brush of hands: when you play, they should lie on them even if the coin falls - you are too sharply gripped by the hand or the position of the brush is wrong. 4) The fingers should be closer to the black keys. 5) Press the keys with the pads of the fingers. 6) Fingers should not bend. 7) Hold your fingers together, you need them to be assembled. 8) After performing each sound, hang your brush in the air, removing the tension in the hand. 9) Round off all your fingers during the game (as explained to children - put your fingers in the "house"). 10) Use your entire hand, from the shoulder. See how professional pianists play - they lift their arms so hard when they play music, not for the sake of scapegoating. 11) Rely on the tips of your fingers - you need to feel at them all the weight of your own hands. 12) Play smoothly: the brush should not "push" the sounds, they must smoothly move from one to another (the so-called "legato"). Correctly playing the piano, you will notice that the hand feels less tired, and the lessons become much more effective. Playing gamma, sometimes distract your attention from the notes and follow your own movements: if you notice a mistake in the formulation of your hands, or that you sit, bending into three deaths, then correct immediately. In this case, I recommend still asking the knowledgeable people to accompany you in the first stage, but better to help you put your hand... --- - Published: 2017-11-21 - Modified: 2017-11-21 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/11/21/10-ways-learning-play-piano-may-help-childs-development/ Everyone knows that playing the piano is useful for the child. Have you ever thought that besides direct benefit from studying music, playing the piano gives you a whole bunch of pluses in other areas of your child's development? And here are 10 of them. 1. Development of coordination Playing the piano helps to develop coordination of hands and eyes. Children are much quicker and easier to learn writing, producing a beautiful handwriting. 2. Increase the concentration of attention The child during the game focuses his attention on reading notes, learns to play the work at a given pace - all this develops the ability to concentrate his attention, which is very important for the harmonious development of the child. 3. Development of auditory and speech abilities Children who play the piano become more susceptible to the surrounding sounds. For example, in a noisy environment, they are much better distinguish the teacher's voice and focus on his speech, and also memorize words much faster and build sentences. 4. Fast reading skills Due to the fact that the child watches the musical note, reading the piece of music, and simultaneously plays the instrument, he develops the skills of rapid reading. 5. The close relationship of music and learning languages Everyone knows that in the human brain the centers that are responsible for the study of languages and music are closely interrelated. If your child is engaged in music since childhood, then it will be much easier for him to learn foreign languages. 6. Development of mathematical abilities According to recent studies of the brain, those children who play piano have great abilities for exact sciences. 7. Self-discipline and control Taking music from an early age helps your child become more disciplined thanks to the successful combination of music lessons with walks and rest. Doing homework and working at music lessons accustoms the child to diligence and purposefulness. 8. Improving memory Long years of playing the piano, studying complex and large pieces of music, preparing your repertoire contributes to a tremendous improvement in human memory. 9. Development of imagination When you remember the sound of spring rain or the whisper of the surf, bright musical pieces will play in your head, exciting imagination and feelings. 10. Wits and Logic Simultaneous work of the right and left hemispheres of the brain strengthens the neural connections. The level of IQ people who are engaged in music is 50% higher than that of ordinary people. Image Copyright: coyot --- - Published: 2017-10-17 - Modified: 2017-10-17 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/10/17/best-age-begin-playing-piano/ Music affects both children and adults and plays an important role in the mental and physical development of children, if you start it at an early age. Music is already present in the life of children in the very infancy in the form of lullabies or poems that you sing or play for them. But this is only the beginning of the road, which will give them many advantages in the future. The study of any musical instrument stimulates the creative beginning and sense of pleasure at public events in children. When children start learning to play the piano, they will get many hidden benefits that will affect their body, mind and soul. Lack of loneliness and complete instant relief in any depression - these are just two of the many advantages that a person gets when learning to play the piano. Start the musical life of children at an early age You might think that it's too early for your children to start playing the piano, but even if they can not learn to play, simply having a class is also useful. Listening to piano music can motivate them and expand consciousness. This will give them a sense of happiness from socialization with other people. Various studies have shown that children who learn to play the piano from an early age show impressive results in logical reasoning and problem solving. Learning to play on any instrument (especially on a complex one, such as a piano) stimulates the development of their nervous system and leads to an improvement in brain function. Therefore such children aspire to receive good estimations and show the best results in mathematical and cognitive tests in comparison with others. Children who start learning music have fewer problems with discipline compared to their classmates. Most of them are striving to achieve results in everything they do, and, thus, they enter the chosen universities in the chosen specialty. Children who are able to play the piano independently do not feel lonely and are able to spend time alone with themselves. In addition, there are many other benefits that children who have been involved in music from an early age receive. Let's talk about them in more detail. As parents, you can give your child very much: Make music a part of everyday life at home. Allow children to listen to music of different genres on different instruments. Take them to concerts or listen to the radio with them. Give them the opportunity to explore the magical world of music in various ways. If one of you is a singer or musician, you can transfer the musical gift to your children. For preschoolers, create your own house tool from cans, panicles, cups, etc. They will be very fun. Encouragement is a necessary part of learning to play the piano or another instrument for your children. Demonstrate interest and praise them for success. Be a role model for your child. If you do not know how to play the piano,... --- - Published: 2017-08-15 - Modified: 2017-08-15 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/08/15/tune-piano-often/ Of all the posters that a piano technician or a tuner has to face, the above question is undoubtedly the one he has to respond to frequently. Before answering the question, it is important to clear the air regarding piano tuning as there is a widespread misconception about the same. There are a lot of people which surprisingly includes many pianists, (mostly amateurs), who are under the impression that a piano can do without tuning, particularly if the instrument is played infrequently or not at least regularly. Pianos are specialized musical instruments that come equipped with strings which are attached to the keys on the keyboard. When or whenever the instrument is played, the keys, each of which produces a specific note or tune exerts, a tension on the strings. The impact of tension causes the strings, which are subject to constant expansion and contraction, to go out of tune sooner or later, depending upon the frequency with which the instrument is played. So, if you continue to play the piano without readjusting or fine-tuning the tension in the strings, you’ll get to hear notes that sound flat. So, now that you know the significance of piano tuning, let us find out how often the instrument should be tuned. Why Go for Piano Tuning and How Often If you’re a pianist who has been playing the instrument for some years now, you might be aware that tuning the same once or at the most twice in a year will keep it in perfect working order. And in case you’ve bought a brand new piano and are taking lessons to master playing this musical instrument, you’ll need to tune it nothing less 4 times within the first 12 months or once every 3 months. The high level of inherent tension in the strings will cause the cords to become stretchy in due course even if you don’t play the piano at all. So, if you sit down to play the instrument, long after you’ve purchased it, say 6 months do not be amazed if all you get to hear are monotonous and dull notes. There are other factors, mostly external that could lead to the piano going out of tune including a high level of RH (relative humidity), extremes of temperatures, and sudden changes in temperature. Piano Tuning Facts A piano that can keep on performing steadily without never ever requiring a tuning is yet to be created. So, as long as such a piano is not made, you’ll have to tune the instrument if you own one. By and large, fluctuating humidity levels is the chief cause behind a piano becoming discordant and dissonant, regardless of whether it is played or not. Changes in room temperature do not have that much of an impact as humidity. Heat from stage lights and sunlight to has a bearing on the instrument’s tonality. When you relocate to a new address with your piano, the instrument can go out of tune as it tries... --- - Published: 2017-07-11 - Modified: 2017-07-12 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/07/11/normal-cost-tuning-piano/ Hardly anybody will dispute that a piano looks massive and bulky. Nevertheless, in reality, it is one of the most sophisticated of musical instruments, exquisitely pieced together from delicate and complex parts that work in perfect harmony, making each of the 88 keys produce a distinct note. The piano keys together with the internal components are subject to routine wear and tear not only because of extensive use but also due to weather or climatic variations. Piano tuning is therefore imperative if you wish to keep the playing the instrument for long. Periodic maintenance and care of your piano are the least you can do for owning this grand musical instrument. The average piano tuning price usually varies from $65-$230 but the figure could go easily go up if you have to go in for multiple fine-tunings within a specific time period, say a year. Always hire an experienced professional instead of going DIY as piano tuning requires one to possess extraordinary skills which can be honed only through meticulous training and practice. The essence of piano tuning In order to adjust or tune the piano to uniform pitch, the technician fine-tunes the tension of each and every string. The technician (and even the pianist) will know instinctively that his piano tuning was effective once the strings start throbbing exactly as they did when the instrument was in shape. The standardized piano tuning technique is “A440” which denotes that the note ‘A’ lying over middle ‘C’ pulsates at the rate of 440 cycles for every second. Since every string that is connected to a particular key throb at a particular frequency, tuning the instrument boils down to simple mathematics. The technician knows that the ‘A’ note following “A440” throbs at 880Hz per second and the note preceding “A440” beats at 220HZ every second. Pianists generally take advantage of the standard tuning strategy so that they are able to synchronize their performance with other musical instruments. Why should you tune your piano? Both professional and amateur pianists are aware of the need to go in for piano tuning once in a while so that the keys generate notes with the perfect pitch. If you tune the instrument on a periodic basis, the natural tension in all the strings is prevented from becoming excessively slackened which could result in keys producing notes that are ‘out of tune’. Timely tunings also enable the piano technician to conveniently check for any sign or signs of damage incumbent upon the soundboard. A majority of the piano manufacturers are of the opinion that you should go for piano tuning at least a couple of times in a single year. Nevertheless, there could be occasions when you might have to opt for more or extra tunings. Pianos which are brand new or about 3-4 months old require 3-4 tunings every year in the beginning in order to allow the strings the opportunity to stretch and retain their normal tension. On the other hand, pianos which are played... --- - Published: 2017-06-06 - Modified: 2017-06-07 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/06/06/music-can-add-spark-positivity-every-sphere-life/ 1. Music can help unlock your latent creativity Music can go a long way in cheering you up which in turn can help unleash your hidden potential. You can be in your elements and at your creative best when you’re happy and cheerful. The greatest discoveries and inventions made in the history of mankind have been made by individuals blessed with a creative mind and intellect. Mankind has always been inspired by great minds since ages and continues to be. The time-honored adage ‘Great Minds Think Alike’ corroborate the assertion that great thinkers including Beethoven, Mozart, and Thomas Edison were constantly drawing from their creativity for coming up with groundbreaking ideas. Playing piano or a bass guitar or simply lending your ears to soul-stirring notes produced by a musical instrument stimulates your gray cells enabling you to give free rein to your imagination. Playing an instrument or listening to one triggers both sides of your brain eventually fuelling your creativity. 2. Music is the veritable universal lingua franca The versatility and power of music are sweeping and across the board in that it not only influences humans but animals as well. Animals that are regarded as highly intelligent such as elephants and dolphins have known to be swayed by music. There is enough evidence to demonstrate that people throughout the world who speak different languages are able to comprehend and appreciate good music irrespective of its genre or style. More often than not, we’re not able to understand the nuances and subtleties of the notes reproduced by the keys while playing piano but most of us are able to make out whether the tunes are mirthful or melancholic. 3. Education can become more engaging because of music Music has the power of making educational activities engaging and playful. We’ve often seen that a large number of kids are not able to understand a specific subject or topic when the teacher uses traditional instructional methods. For instance, many children find it difficult to memorize and recall multiplication tables when they’re made to learn by rote. Try explaining your little one a mathematical problem by playing piano and you can bet he’ll or she’ll understand and solve the same in minutes. You can make your kid comprehend the stanzas of poetry in a better manner when you recite the verses in a manner as if it were a song. 4. Music can make you experience the entire gamut of emotions Music can make you laugh, cry, weep, reminisce, and stir up emotions in your mind which you may not have experienced before. The flats, sharps, and natural notes generated by the different keys when playing piano can evoke a range of feelings and offer you a spiritual boost. A particular song or an instrumental music piece can take you on a vicarious journey and make you ecstatic or mournful. Music has the potential to enable you to live life with a spirit of joie-de-vivre. Picture Credit: music4life --- - Published: 2017-05-16 - Modified: 2017-06-07 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/05/16/5-distinct-ways-piano-classes-can-benefit-youngsters/ Music has always had a soothing and uplifting effect upon the human psyche since times immemorial. Music, it has been rightly remarked, is food for the soul. Learning to play a musical instrument like a guitar or piano is as significant as engaging in a sporting activity for the all round development of children and youngsters. For instance, taking piano lessons can go a long way in boosting up memory, reasoning and motor skills as well as improve eye-to-hand coordination and social networking skills. Following are some useful benefits that children can take advantage of for a lifetime if they can master the skills of playing piano:- 1. Taking piano lessons makes the child more productive at school Practicing to play the piano on a regular basis can help your kid become more creative at school. Numerous studies have been conducted overwhelmingly proving that children who take piano lessons are more likely to score higher marks in standardized tests as well as assessments that gauge their cognitive skills. Findings from such trials also corroborate that school going kids playing piano are more adept at solving mathematical problems, especially algebraic functions and ratios. (more... ) --- - Published: 2017-04-13 - Modified: 2017-06-07 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/04/13/really-need-opt-piano-tuning/ You could be an ace pianist or planning to take lessons for becoming one. Regardless of whether you’re an acclaimed pianist or an unheralded amateur, the need to get the musical instrument tuned surely might have crossed your mind. Piano tuning from time to time is necessary for adjusting the pitch of the keys if you want the instrument to perform according to your expectations. Musical experts highly recommend the tuning process but there are individuals who believe that a quality piano doesn’t need to be tuned at all. So, what is the significance of piano tuning? (more... ) --- - Published: 2017-03-06 - Modified: 2017-03-06 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/06/efficiency-of-work/ Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins, bridges and soundboard. Conact us --- - Published: 2017-03-06 - Modified: 2017-03-06 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/06/quality-assurance/ Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins, bridges and soundboard. Conact us --- - Published: 2017-03-06 - Modified: 2017-03-06 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/06/experience-of-many-years/ Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins, bridges and soundboard. Conact us --- - Published: 2017-03-06 - Modified: 2017-03-06 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/06/discounts/ Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins, bridges and soundboard. Conact us --- - Published: 2017-03-05 - Modified: 2017-03-05 - URL: https://tampapianotuning.com/2017/03/05/tuning/ Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins, bridges and soundboard. Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins, bridges and soundboard. Piano strings are under a great deal of tensions which is supported by the cast iron plate, pinblock, tuning pins, bridges and soundboard. --- ---