Nigel Donovan
Services
Tuning
I tune stringed keyboard instruments which include grand, upright and square pianos, harpsichords, clavichords, and spinets.
The default tuning is Equal Temperament but I can tune other, historical temperaments on request which may suit certain older types of piano, square pianos in particular. I tune to concert pitch (A440) and, with regular tunings, will maintain your piano at this pitch. I can also tune to other pitches on request.
When tuning a piano I am constantly checking the action to ensure that it is working efficiently. I will make adjustments to the regulation as I proceed with the tuning and, where appropriate, will advise on any further work needed to improve the responsiveness of touch.
I have tuned aurally (that is, without any aid other than a tuning fork) since I started my training in 1979. However, Electronic Tuning Devices have improved dramatically over the last few years and I now use a combination of aural tuning with the Reyburn CyberTuner. An ETD enables a tuner to produce a good scale and octaves and more accurate pitch raises on even the most difficult of pianos than is possible tuning by ear alone. Professional software does not, however, enable an amateur or poor tuner to produce acceptable results. Setting the pin and achieving good unisons still requires traditional skills which can only come with proper training and years of experience.
Repairs
Although many repairs can be done in situ, I am able to offer a workshop repair service that includes minor action or key work and some reconditioning and restringing.
