Piano tuning is one of those things where the “right” answer depends on both the instrument’s age and how it’s used, but the major manufacturers do give some clear guidance. Here’s a breakdown:
General Recommendations
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New pianos: Most manufacturers (and the National Piano Manufacturers Association) recommend 3–4 tunings in the first year. This is because the instrument is adjusting to string tension, humidity, and its new environment.
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After the first year: Typically at least twice a year is the standard for home use. This aligns with seasonal changes in humidity and temperature, which affect tuning stability.
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Heavy use (concert halls, schools, studios): Professional instruments are often tuned before every performance or recording session, sometimes multiple times a week.
What major manufacturers say
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Yamaha: Advises tuning at least twice a year, more often if the piano is used heavily.
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Steinway & Sons: Recommends four times in the first year, then two or more times annually thereafter.
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Kawai: Suggests 3–4 times in the first year, then at least twice yearly.
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Bösendorfer: Similar guidance—quarterly in the first year, then semiannually.
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Bechstein advises calling a piano tuner ideally twice a year.
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Blüthner recommends tuning every six months (twice a year) under normal conditions. Teachers, performers, or studios should tune at least three times a year.
Why this matters
Pianos are highly sensitive to humidity and temperature. Even if you don’t play often, the wood and strings expand and contract with the seasons, pulling the piano out of tune. Regular tuning not only keeps it sounding beautiful but also protects the long-term health of the instrument.
Reference:
Piano Tuning Recommendations By Manufacturer – https://artisanpianos.com/blogs/blog/piano-tuning-recommendations-by-manufacturer
How Often Should You Tune Your Piano – https://www.soundsgreatpiano.com/post/how-often-should-you-tune-your-piano-and-why-it-matters-more-than-you-think
C. Bechstein – https://www.bechstein.com/en/service/maintenance-and-care/piano-tuning/
Bluthner Piano – https://bluthner.co.uk/services/piano-tuning-and-servicing
Why Technicians’ Advice Can Differ from Manufacturers
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Manufacturers give “baseline” guidance
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Technicians see your actual piano
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A technician evaluates your instrument’s age, condition, and stability.
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For example, an older piano with loose tuning pins may need more frequent touch-ups, while a very stable, well-maintained piano might hold pitch longer.
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Local climate matters
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Humidity swings in Hong Kong, Arizona, or Germany are very different. A technician knows how your local environment affects the soundboard and strings.
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Manufacturers can’t account for every microclimate, but technicians can.
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Usage patterns
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A piano in a conservatory practice room (played 8 hours a day) will need far more frequent tuning than a living-room piano played once a week.
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Technicians adjust their advice to match how you use the instrument.
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Preventive care
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Technicians often recommend slightly more frequent tuning than the “minimum” to prevent pitch from drifting too far.
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This avoids the need for stressful “pitch raises,” which can strain strings and the structure.
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In short
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Manufacturer = general baseline (what’s safe for most owners).
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Technician = personalized care (what’s best for your piano in your environment).
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