After my training was completed in the late 70s, I emerged with a C5 tuning fork in hand, a good ear, along with other basic tools one would need to tune a piano. While this system worked for many years, I eventually discovered that the use of technology (on a limited basis) not only sped up the process, but ensured that the foundational pitches were spot on.
One of my favorite tools to use is TuneLab, which is a professional app used by many technicians around the world. I have found that using this type of technology enables me to not only tune faster, but it ensures that the pitches are spot on and that your piano is tuned as perfectly as possible. With so many years under my belt where I tuned exclusively by ear, I conclude the tuning process by checking everything by ear, making necessary tweaks before I’m finished. I’ve learned that each piano tends to have their own personality, varying tone and temperament, as well as varying responsiveness to the tension applied while being tuned.
I know this may sound like tuning a piano is simple, but it is a very difficult task, requiring experience, patience and due diligence (not to mention a quiet environment).
Tuning pianos is something I enjoy doing, as I’ve had over 46 years to develop the craft. I am grateful for this ability, and look forward to sharing this gift with your piano in the coming weeks!