The pitch raise speech

[Brian Doepke]

If the piano is more that 20 cents under, and the piano is older and
neglected, I explain that there is a higher chance of the strings breaking
if I were to pull the string tension all the way back up to standard/factory
tension.  I do explain to them that, based on how far flat it is, it may
take a few tunings to get the piano back to standard pitch.  Most folks say
that they understand and are embarrassed that the piano went so long without
service.  But, they are very happy after the tuning...even though it may not
be up to standard pitch..because it sounds so much better to them.

Does that make sense?

Brian P. Doepke
 
AAA Piano Works, Inc.
260-432-2043
260-417-1298


-----Original Message-----
From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf
Of Michelle Smith
Sent: Friday, May 12, 2006 12:36 PM
To: Pianotech List
Subject: The pitch raise speech

As a new tuner, I have read with much interest the non-emotional  
speech given to customers concerning the possible outcomes of a pitch  
raise.  (Plate failure, string breakage, etc.)

Is there a certain point (cents-wise) that you give this speech or is  
it based more on the condition/age of the instrument?

Also, I'm assuming the customer's answer is usually in favor of the  
pitch raise.  What do you do when they don't want to risk it?  Go  
home or tune the piano to itself?

Thanks for sharing your experiences.

Michelle Smith
Student Tuner
Bastrop, Texas