What Is a Piano Pitch Raise and When Does Your Piano Need One?
If your piano has not been tuned for several years, you may have been told that it needs a pitch raise before it can be properly tuned.
But what exactly is a pitch raise, and why is it sometimes necessary?
A pitch raise is a specialised part of the piano tuning process used when a piano's overall pitch has fallen significantly below standard concert pitch.
What Is a Piano Pitch Raise?
Standard concert pitch is generally based on A4 = 440 Hz.
When a piano is left without tuning for a long period, the tension of its strings gradually changes and the overall pitch can fall below A440.
A pitch raise brings the strings closer to the correct pitch before the final fine tuning.
It is important to understand that a pitch raise is not simply "tuning the piano higher." It is a controlled process that prepares the instrument for an accurate final tuning.
Why Does a Piano Need a Pitch Raise?
A piano may require a pitch raise when it has been:
Untuned for several years
Regularly tuned below concert pitch
Subject to significant changes in humidity
Moved after a long period without maintenance
Left unused for an extended period
The further the piano is below A440, the more likely it is that a pitch raise will be required.
Can You Just Tune the Piano Directly to A440?
Sometimes, but not always.
When a piano is significantly below standard pitch, bringing every string directly to A440 during one fine tuning can result in large changes in string tension.
A professional technician may first perform a pitch raise to bring the piano closer to the target pitch, followed by a second tuning once the strings have had time to stabilise.
This produces a more accurate and stable result.
Why Can a Pitch Raise Take More Than One Tuning?
When string tension changes significantly, the piano's structure also responds to those changes.
The soundboard, bridges, pinblock and strings all interact with one another.
After a substantial pitch adjustment, the strings may move slightly as the piano settles.
For this reason, a piano that has been neglected for many years may require:
Pitch Raise → Stabilisation → Fine Tuning
In some cases, additional tuning may be recommended depending on how far the piano has fallen from concert pitch and how stable the instrument is.
Is a Pitch Raise Safe for an Old Piano?
A professional pitch raise can usually be performed safely, but the condition of the piano must be considered first.
Older instruments may have weakened strings, fragile components or other structural issues that need to be assessed before making a significant pitch adjustment.
This is why an experienced piano technician should inspect the instrument before carrying out a major pitch raise.
How Do You Know If Your Piano Needs a Pitch Raise?
The only reliable way to determine this is to measure the piano's current pitch.
If your piano has not been tuned for several years, it may be substantially below concert pitch.
A professional technician can assess the pitch and determine whether the instrument requires a pitch raise, a standard tuning, or additional servicing.
How Long Does a Pitch Raise Take?
The time required depends on how far the piano is below concert pitch and the condition of the instrument.
A piano that is only slightly flat may be able to be brought closer to pitch during a normal tuning appointment.
A piano that is significantly below A440 may require additional time and more than one tuning to achieve a stable result.
What Happens After a Pitch Raise?
Once the piano has been brought closer to concert pitch, a final tuning is performed to accurately tune each note.
The goal is not only to reach A440 but also to achieve a stable, balanced and musical tuning across the entire keyboard.
Professional Piano Tuning and Pitch Raising in Perth
At Foad Piano Service, I assess the condition and pitch of each piano before deciding on the appropriate tuning process.
With more than 12 years of professional experience working with upright and grand pianos, I provide piano tuning, pitch raises, repairs, voicing and restoration throughout Perth and surrounding suburbs.
If your piano has not been tuned for several years, don't worry. In many cases, the instrument can be brought back to a stable and enjoyable playing condition with the right professional approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far can a piano be below A440 before it needs a pitch raise?
There is no single number that applies to every piano. The amount of pitch deviation, the condition of the instrument and its tuning history all need to be considered.
Does a pitch raise replace a normal tuning?
Usually, no. A pitch raise is generally followed by a fine tuning to achieve the best possible accuracy and stability.
Does every old piano need a pitch raise?
No. Age alone does not determine whether a piano needs a pitch raise. Its current pitch and tuning history are more important.
Book a Piano Tuning
If your piano has not been tuned for several years or you suspect that it is significantly below concert pitch, a professional assessment can determine whether a pitch raise is required.
Regular piano tuning is the best way to maintain stable pitch and avoid the need for major pitch corrections in the future.
