This is a question a lot of people don’t think to ask — but it’s a good one. When you schedule a piano tuning, what are you actually paying for? The simple answer is: in most cases, you’re paying for the tuning itself. That means bringing the instrument to proper pitch and making sure it sounds balanced, clean, and as stable as possible. But depending on the technician or company, what’s included beyond that can vary quite a bit.

If you live in Kentucky or Southern Indiana, you already know — our weather shifts a lot. Humid summers. Dry winters. Big temperature swings between seasons. And while we may adjust to that fairly easily, your piano does not. Pianos are incredibly sensitive instruments. They’re made primarily of wood, felt, and steel, and they sit under thousands of pounds of string tension. Even if the piano isn’t played every day, it’s constantly responding to its environment.

That’s why regular piano tuning in Kentucky and Southern Indiana isn’t just about sound — it’s about stability.

This is probably the most common question we get as piano technicians. And the honest answer is: it depends — but there is a standard starting point. For most home pianos in Louisville, the industry recommendation is twice per year, or about once every six months. That schedule keeps the instrument stable through Kentucky’s seasonal humidity swings and prevents the pitch from drifting too far. If a piano is played very lightly, the absolute bare minimum we recommend is once per year. Even if it’s not used often, the piano is still under thousands of pounds of string tension. It’s still expanding and contracting with humidity. It’s still aging. Pianos don’t stay stable just because they’re not being played.

If you’re searching for a piano tuner in Louisville, you’ve probably noticed there are several options. Some are long-established individuals, some are regional companies, and others are newer independent services. Your piano is a major investment — musically and financially — so choosing the right technician matters. The decision isn’t just about who can tune it once, it’s about who will care for your instrument consistently over the years. Here’s how to make a confident, informed choice:

If you’ve recently found out that your piano technician has retired, you’re not alone. In cities like Louisville, KY, it’s common for long-established piano tuners to serve families for decades. When they step away, it can feel unsettling — especially if they’ve cared for your instrument for years. The good news? Transitioning to a new piano technician doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, you can ensure your piano continues to receive expert, consistent care.

Here’s what to do next: