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Piano Repairs

Piano repair and tuning across Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, Hampshire, London

Runnymede Pianos , Repairs

"Our local piano shop told me that  that my  piano was beyond repair but I found Toby who literally saved my piano" 

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(Virginia Water)

I offer a comprehensive piano repair service across Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, Hampshire and London, providing skilled, reliable care for both upright and grand pianos of all ages. Whether your piano requires a minor mechanical adjustment or more extensive repair work, I approach every instrument with the same attention to detail, respect, and craftsmanship. Pianos are complex mechanical instruments containing thousands of individual parts, all of which must work together in precise harmony. Over time, even the finest piano will experience wear, deterioration, and mechanical issues that affect both performance and reliability.

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As a piano ages, the many moving components within the action are subjected to constant friction and pressure. Tiny felt bushings gradually compress and harden, leading to sluggish or uneven key movement. Hammers become worn, grooved, or misshapen, which can significantly affect tone quality and consistency. Springs lose tension, wooden parts react to changes in humidity, and metal components may fatigue or fail altogether. Eventually, individual parts may break or stop functioning as intended, resulting in sticking keys, uneven touch, lost notes, or noisy operation.

As an experienced piano technician, I have encountered an extensive range of piano repair challenges throughout my career. These have included snapped piano legs, broken or seized pedals, cracked key frames, worn hammer shanks, broken repetition levers, and severely deteriorated action components. Some repairs are relatively straightforward, while others require in-depth diagnosis, precision workmanship, and a thorough understanding of piano mechanics. In certain cases, replacement parts are no longer available, particularly for older or unusual instruments. When this happens, I am able to manufacture new action components by hand, carefully shaping and fitting them to match the original parts as closely as possible. This allows me to carry out sympathetic repairs that preserve the original character, touch, and musical integrity of the instrument.

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My training has played a crucial role in shaping the standard of piano repair and restoration work I provide today. I was extremely fortunate to study at The London College of Furniture, where I gained a solid foundation in piano construction, materials, and mechanical principles. Following this, I worked at Steinway & Sons, one of the world’s most respected piano manufacturers. There, I learned the intricacies of the modern piano under the guidance of highly skilled master technicians, developing a deep understanding of precision repair techniques, action regulation, and tonal refinement.

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Alongside my work on modern instruments, I also had the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with specialist master craftsmen who focused on older and rarer pianos. This experience gave me a deep appreciation of historical construction methods, traditional materials, and period-appropriate repair techniques. Many antique and early-20th-century pianos require a very different approach from modern instruments, and understanding these differences is essential when carrying out repairs that are both effective and respectful to the piano’s heritage.

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Today, many older pianos hold far greater sentimental value than monetary worth. They may have been passed down through generations, associated with important family memories, or connected to a particular place or time in someone’s life. I fully understand the emotional attachment owners often have to these instruments, and I treat them accordingly. I will never pressure a client into replacing a piano unnecessarily or investing in repairs that do not make sense for their circumstances.

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When working on a family heirloom or well-loved instrument, my aim is always to find a practical and affordable balance between restoration and preservation. This may involve targeted repairs that improve playability and reliability without the expense of a full rebuild. However, I also believe in complete honesty. There are occasions when a piano has reached the end of its practical life, or when the cost of repairs would far exceed the instrument’s realistic value or usefulness. In these situations, I will always provide clear, professional advice so that you can make an informed decision with confidence.

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If you are looking for a trusted piano repair specialist in Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, Hampshire or London, I would be pleased to help. From minor mechanical faults to complex action repairs, my goal is always to extend the life of your piano and ensure it continues to be a pleasure to play for many years to come.

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