Tuning Techniques For An Upright Piano

Can an Upright Sound Like A Grand Piano? 

Maybe not exactly, but it can get darn close. In this video, Ted provides information on what you might not have known about different techniques and capabilities when tuning a piano. These are the different methods used by professional piano tuners today. 

The first technical based skill is Aural Tuning (By Ear)- 
This time-honored method involves using a tuning fork or pitch reference and adjusting each string based on harmonics and intervals. It requires a finely trained ear and is often preferred by seasoned piano technicians. With tuning levers the small metal pins on each string are carefully adjusted to pitch. 

Second are with Electronic Tuning Devices
Modern tuners use apps or specialized electronic tools to measure pitch frequencies precisely. These devices help ensure consistent results, especially useful for beginners or large-scale tuning jobs

Ted is strictly an Aural based piano tuner. In the video he explains a technique of Stretch Tuning. A professional technique where octaves are slightly widened to accommodate how the human ear perceives pitch across registers. This is especially important in upright pianos, where bass strings resonate differently than in grands.

With this technique you can expand the projection range of an upright to make it sound as VAST and STRONG like the sound of a Grand Piano.