What to Expect When a Piano Technician Visits: A Guide for First-Time Customers
- Dale Dahlberg
- Jun 2
- 4 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
If this is your first time booking a piano service, you might wonder what to expect, or if there’s anything you need to do ahead of time.
I get it! For many people, calling a piano technician is a new experience. I want to make the process simple, comfortable, and rewarding for you, whether your piano is a cherished family heirloom or you have just started lessons.
Here’s what you can expect when I come to service your piano, plus a few helpful tips to make the most of your visit.
Before the Visit: How to Prepare Your Piano Room
You don’t need to do much, but here are a few small things that can help the visit go smoothly:
Clear a path to the piano. If there’s furniture, décor, or toys around the piano, moving them in advance saves time. Please move anything that is on top of the piano, such as lamps, metronomes, and decorative items. I will need to raise your piano’s lid.
Try to minimize background noise, if possible. I’ll need to hear subtle pitch changes during tuning, so turning off TVs, music, or noisy appliances is very helpful.
Mind the pets. I love animals and enjoy meeting pets, but for their comfort and safety, it is best to keep them in a separate room while I am working.
When I Arrive: A Quick Conversation
Every piano has a story, and I like to start by getting to know yours.
I'll ask a few questions, such as:
When was it last tuned?
Who plays it, how often, and what do they like to play?
Are there any issues you’ve noticed—sticking keys, strange sounds, uneven touch?
What music do you like to play?
This helps me personalize the service to your piano's condition and so you can achieve your goals as a player, teacher, or parent.
What Happens During the Appointment
I offer two main types of in-home service, depending on how long it’s been since your piano was last tuned.
1. Five Point Piano Tune Up (about 2 hours)
Perfect for regularly maintained pianos, this service includes:
Inspection & Evaluation – I will check your piano’s overall condition, looking for any issues that need to be addressed, and opportunities to improve its playability.
Precision Tuning – I will fine-tune your piano using state-of-the-art tools and techniques, checking and re-checking to be sure your piano is beautifully tuned and sounds great.
Touch-Up Regulation & Voicing – I will make small adjustments to make your piano easier to play, improve the feel of the keys, and ensure its tone is consistent from note to note.
Light Cleaning – I will gently clean the keys and dust exposed surfaces to freshen your piano’s appearance.
Minor Repairs – If I find an issue such as a squeaky pedal or sticky key, I can usually take care of it on the spot at no extra charge. If a repair will require an additional cost, I will discuss the work that needs to be done with you before I get started, so you will never be surprised with an unexpected expense at the end of the appointment.
2. Catch Up Piano Care (about 3 hours)
If it has been more than a year since your piano was last tuned, it likely needs more than a single tuning to sound its best. This extended service includes:
Two tunings, on the same day, to bring your piano safely back to standard pitch and stabilize the tension of the strings. This helps your piano stay in tune longer.
Extra time for deeper evaluation and minor adjustments.
All the benefits of the Five Point Tune Up, but with the extra care a neglected piano needs to sing again.
Not sure which service you need? Don’t worry, I’ll help you decide when I see the piano.
After the Visit:
At the end of your appointment, I’ll give you a quick review of what I did, anything I noticed, and when to consider your next service. I’ll also share simple care tips to help keep your piano in great shape between visits. I will also recommend any additional services that will enhance your piano’s performance—no pressure, just helpful guidance.
Common Questions from First-Time Customers
How long does a visit take?
The Five Point Tune Up takes about 2 hours. Catch Up Piano Care is closer to 3.
Is it loud?
Not really! Tuning involves a lot of listening and gently playing notes. If someone is working or studying nearby, it’s usually not disruptive to them. In fact, more than one customer has fallen asleep nearby while I was tuning their piano!
Do I need to be home the whole time?
It’s best to be there at the beginning to let me in and discuss your piano with me. After that, you're welcome to stay or step away.
What if something needs fixing?
If I find something minor, I’ll often fix it right away. For anything major, I’ll explain the options clearly, with no pressure.
Tips for a Great Piano Service Experience
Be available at the beginning of the appointment to discuss any questions or concerns you have about your piano.
If you are on a tight schedule, please let me know so I can prioritize the work that matters most.
Don’t hesitate to ask me questions—I’m happy to explain what I’m doing and why. I love to talk about pianos!
Ready to Schedule Your First Visit?
If you're in Eden Prairie, Minneapolis, Shorewood, Minnetrista, or any of the nearby Twin Cities neighborhoods, I’d love to help you get the most out of your piano.
Whether you book a Five Point Piano Tune Up or need the extra care of a Catch Up Piano Care visit, I’ll make sure your piano gets the attention it deserves, and that you feel confident and comfortable every step of the way.
Book Your Appointment Online or Contact Me to get started.
