How often to tune your piano: practical guide for Melbourne

If you just pulled a new or newly rebuilt piano into your home, you might assume the factory tune is the gold standard. In reality, those first tunings are often more about settling in the strings and soundboard than chasing perfect pitch. Pianos are dynamic machines – strings free up, soundboards shift, and tension settles after shipping. The result: the instrument can drift quite a bit in the first months. Practical takeaway: plan for at least 2–4 tunings in the first year after delivery. In the factory, pianos are often tuned several times and set slightly above standard pitch (around 444 Hz instead of 440 Hz) to prevent the pitch from rising after setup. That extra room is the reason your tuner may adjust more gradually in those early visits rather than chasing a perfect 440 Hz on day one. Here’s a straightforward Melbourne-friendly plan: - First 2–6 weeks: have the piano tuned once to establish a baseline that accounts for the settling period. - 3–6 months: a second tuning helps lock in the pitch after further stabilization. - By the end of year one: expect 3–4 tunings total as the instrument homes in on stable pitch, with any seasonal humidity swings considered. A practical rule for most homes: budget around $180–$220 per tuning in Melbourne. If you’re buying a showroom piano, you may see slightly higher pricing for the first couple of tunings as the tuner works to lock in the most stable pitch. If you own a high-end or antique instrument, the cost can edge toward $250–$300 per session, reflecting more careful work and regulation of competing sounds. Practical tips to improve stability between tunings: - Place the piano away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and exterior doors. Humidity swings are a real drift factor. - Use a hygrometer to monitor indoor humidity and aim for a steady 40–50% when possible. - Consider a simple room humidifier or a dedicated piano humidity system if your climate swings are drastic. A good tuner will explain what they’re seeing and tailor the schedule to your piano’s temperament, room conditions, and how often you play. If you’re in Melbourne and want a practical, friendly approach to setting up a tuning plan that fits your instrument and budget, I’m here to help schedule and guide you through the year.