By Keith Gramlich – Piano Tuning & Repair, Long Island & the NY Metro Area
📞 Want your piano to stay in great shape between service visits? Let’s keep it happy!
Call or text (917) 757-4207 or email Wurli1@live.com anytime.
🎹 Serving Queens, Long Island, and the NY Metro Area with expert piano care for over 30 years.
A well-tuned piano is a joy to play—but keeping it happy between visits takes a little teamwork. The good news? It’s not hard. With just a few simple habits, you can help your piano stay in better shape, last longer, and sound sweeter every day.
Here’s how to keep those ivories smiling between tunings:
🏠 1. Location, Location, Location
Where your piano lives matters more than people think. Try to keep it:
- Away from windows, radiators, fireplaces, or vents
- Out of direct sunlight (which can warp the wood and fade the finish)
- In a spot with consistent temperature and humidity (aim for around 68°F and 42% RH if possible)
Think of your piano like a houseguest from Vienna—it doesn’t like drafts, dramatic weather, or loud air conditioning.
💧 2. Control Humidity
Humidity is one of the biggest enemies of tuning stability. In the summer, too much moisture causes wood to swell; in winter, dry air makes it shrink and crack.
Consider using:
- A room humidifier (or dehumidifier)
- A climate control system for upright or grand pianos
- A hygrometer to monitor levels near the piano
A stable piano is a happy piano.
🧼 3. Keep It Clean (Gently!)
- Dust the keys with a dry microfiber cloth—don’t spray anything directly on them
- Wipe down the case occasionally with a barely damp cloth
- Never use household cleaners, polish, or anything with alcohol or ammonia
And please—no drinks on the piano. Not even water. Especially not coffee. (Yes, I’ve seen it. Yes, it’s bad.)
🔇 4. Let It Rest Sometimes
Believe it or not, playing too aggressively on a piano that’s already out of tune or has worn parts can make things worse. If something feels off—like sticky keys, weird buzzes, or uneven tone—it’s better to pause and give me a call before pushing through.
🛠 5. Stay on a Tuning Schedule
Even if your piano sounds okay, regular tuning (once or twice a year) keeps tension levels even and protects against future problems. A well-maintained piano:
- Holds its pitch longer
- Needs fewer emergency repairs
- Brings more joy to play and hear
Put it on your calendar, just like a dentist visit—only more fun.
🐾 Bonus Tip: Protect It From Pets, Kids & Chaos
- Keep lid closed when not in use
- Don’t let kids pound on keys (unless supervised)
- Watch for pets napping on or inside the instrument
Trust me, cat fur in the action is not a factory feature.
Your piano is a living, breathing piece of art. With a little care and attention, it will reward you with beautiful music for generations.
📞 Need help keeping your piano happy? I’ve got you covered.
Call or text Keith Gramlich at (917) 757-4207 or email Wurli1@live.com to schedule a tuning or ask a question.
🎹 Serving Queens, Long Island, and the NY Metro Area—one happy piano at a time.