Piano safety and repairs

According to Yamaha Corporation, the instrument was created in 1700s Italy by Bartolomeo Cristofori. The modern piano has a wooden body that envelops about 230 strings and 88 felt-covered hammers, which each connects to a corresponding key. When a key is pressed, the hammers hit the strings to produce notes. It is imperative that the strings remain in tune and the structure remains intact to make sure each key can accurately hit the correct note, to produce the best music. 

On average, a Steinway Grand Piano costs around $100,000, depending on the size and model. Similar to a car, it requires maintenance which varies based on how frequently it’s in use.

At a minimum, Amro Music recommends tuning a piano about once a year. However, Kimbell recognizes that environmental factors can impact the cost and extensivity of needed maintenance.

“Best case scenario, a piano left without heating or cooling for a year will need a double tuning and joint lubrication, which will likely cost around $300,” Kimbell said. “If the joints need repinning in addition to those other services, it could be over $1,000.”

To prevent those extra costs in areas with intense temperature fluctuations, additional protection can be supplemented without modifying the climate.

“There are systems that you can install under the piano, like the Dampp Chaser, which uses dehumidifier rods to dry out the air surrounding the piano. There’s also a humidifier that can be used if the air gets too dry,” Kimbell said.

A Piano Life Saver system combines these two pieces of technology, requiring professional installation by a piano technician and costing between $400-$800, depending on the piano’s size. 

Although the cost of maintaining a piano may seem overbearing, especially to a school with other maintenance priorities, Kimbell believes that it’s worth having a fully-functional instrument. 

“You have to weigh the pros and cons of where you want to spend your money,” Kimbell said. “For me, the beauty and complexity of music are more important than the cost.”