How to Tune an Upright Piano!

How to Tune an Upright Piano

In today’s training, we’re diving into the fundamentals of upright piano tuning using an Electronic Tuning Device (ETD). Whether you’re tuning your first upright or just want a refresher on best practices, this guide will walk you through everything from essential tools to fine-tuning techniques and posture tips.

Essential Tools for Upright Piano Tuning

We’re working on a Yamaha P22—one of the most common uprights you’ll encounter. For this, you’ll need four key tools:

1. Tuning Lever
   A professional tuning lever provides precision and control. While you can start with an entry-level hammer (often sold as “apprentice hammers” on Amazon), upgrading to a rigid, well-fitted lever improves tuning stability. Expect to spend between $300 and $1,000 for a high-quality lever.
   
   
2. Rubber and Papps Mutes
   1. A standard rubber mute (about 3½" long, ½" wide) for most upright work.
   2. A Papps mute for tight treble sections where spacing is limited.
   3. You can get by with just these two, though a lid prop is also recommended for safety and comfort.

1. Lid Prop
   Essential for keeping the top lid safely propped open—especially if the piano is near a wall.
   
   
2. Electronic Tuning Device (ETD)
   We recommend the Reyburn CyberTuner, a $1,000 software app compatible with iOS devices. It allows you to measure inharmonicity, visualize pitch movement, and tune with a hybrid approach—using both your ears and your eyes.
   

*Pro Tip: As a student of The Artisan School, you can receive a significant discount on CyberTuner—contact us directly for details.

Getting Started: Measuring with an ETD

Using an ETD like CyberTuner, you’ll first measure the key A-notes across the piano (A1, A3, A4, A5). To measure, mute two of the three strings in each tri-chord and strike the remaining string gently and steadily. Once the readings register in the “green” zone, you’re good to go.

This forms your tuning roadmap, giving you a personalized stretch curve for that specific instrument.

Posture: Protect Your Body, Improve Your Accuracy

One of the most overlooked aspects of tuning is posture. Whether sitting or standing, your body position affects both your precision and long-term health.

• Stand for more control. Especially when starting out, standing allows for more leverage and better hearing.
  
• Get close to the keys. Whether seated or standing, keep your hips against the keybed and avoid overreaching.
  
• Use your shoulder and arm—not your wrist alone. This reduces strain and improves pin movement control.
  
• Listen to your body. Console pianos may force you into awkward positions. Adapt your posture to reduce fatigue.
  

Tuning Technique: A Hybrid Approach

At Artisan, we advocate a hybrid tuning method:

1. Left string of each unison is tuned using the ETD.
   
2. Middle and right strings are tuned aurally to match the left, then checked with the ETD.
   
3. Use your ear and eye. Trust both tools—your ETD and your listening.
   

We encourage students to develop muscle memory and unison control early using an ETD. It's more about training your hands than your ears at this stage—and mastering tuning pin control is key.

Muting Techniques: Keep It Simple

Some technicians use elaborate muting schemes, but here’s our simplified process:

• For bi-chords (two-string notes):
  Tune the left string to the ETD, then tune the right to match by ear.
  
  
• For tri-chords (three-string notes):
  Tune the left string to the ETD, the center to the left, and the right to the center—muting the other strings as needed using your rubber and Papps mute.

*For tight spaces like the upper treble, always mute from below the hammer, not above. It’s easier and avoids accidental drops into the piano.

 

Stability Tip: The Downward Tug

One tuning tip we’ve found extremely helpful for pitch stability: always begin by slightly pulling the string flat (a quick, subtle downward tug). This breaks the “memory” in the string and allows you to bring the pitch back up cleanly and securely.

It’s especially useful for pitch raises and has been shown to reduce string breakage over time.

Conclusion: Build Confidence with a Hybrid Foundation

Our goal at The Artisan School is to give you a solid, stable tuning technique built on real-world experience and collaboration. Starting with a hybrid ETD approach helps new technicians develop confidence, improve accuracy, and minimize physical strain.

We’ll dive deeper into aural tuning, temperament building, and grand piano techniques in upcoming sessions—but remember: control and stability come first.