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Cleaning may not be a favored activity for many. Indeed, it's often not the task of choice. Nevertheless, it's an unavoidable duty.
As a music teacher, maintaining the condition of my musical instruments is imperative to preserve their sound quality. Given the current health considerations, regularly cleaning and sanitizing keys has become essential.
Wondering how it can be considered soul-soothing? While I'm not a professional therapist, engaging in activities that bring calm and relaxation can be therapeutic. Additionally, having soothing music playing in the background can enhance the experience.
Being meticulous, I find focus in cleaning and polishing my piano, paying attention to every detail. This process of meticulous cleaning inadvertently helps me concentrate on completing the task accurately. Concentrating on a specific activity like this can be likened to meditation, wouldn't you say? This routine gradually creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere for me, making it a therapeutic experience. For others, it could be gardening, painting, or simply going for a walk.
Regardless of the activity, it's essential to allocate sufficient time for it rather than rushing through.
Just consider the next time you clean your piano as a therapeutic activity, which may make you more excited to begin :)
So, what specific items do you require to clean your musical instruments?
Before anything else, familiarize yourself with your piano. What type of finish does your piano have - high-gloss, lacquer, satin, or another? What are the keys made of?
The piano I currently own is a Kawai with a high-gloss finish and acrylic/phenol keys.
Here are some things I use for mine
Key Cleaner - for the white and black keys
Piano Polish - for exterior finish
Soft cloth
Duster
Vacuum cleaner
Soft toothbrush - to gently scrub off dirt for hard-to-reach areas
1) Begin by lightly vacuuming the spaces between the keys. Then, dust the keys once more to ensure they are free of debris.
2) Use a soft cloth to apply the key cleaner. Clean the keys using a back-to-front motion, going over all 88 keys twice to ensure they are completely dry.
* For a standard 61 keys keyboard, follow steps 1 and 2 and remove the dust on the panel with a soft cloth afterward. Use a keyboard cover for easier future maintenance.
3) The next step involves buffing the piano's glossy finish. Prior to buffing, utilize a gentle, slightly moist cloth to eliminate any dust, grime, or fingerprints. Repeat this process with a separate dry cloth if needed.
Personally, I use the same soft cloth for both the key cleaner and piano polish, making sure to use different sections of the fabric. I typically opt to pour the polish liquid onto the polishing cloth rather than directly onto the piano surface. Additionally, if you are uncertain about the product, consider testing a small, inconspicuous area of the piano first. Always use a high-quality polish specifically designed for pianos, not general household items.
4) Similar to other polishing tasks, I prefer allowing the polish to set for a while before wiping it off to achieve a better shine. Work on small sections at a time using gentle movements to prevent scratching. Ensure thorough polishing of every part of the piano, including the top, bottom, piano cover, and music rack, while avoiding contact with any fabric or brass materials like hinges, etc.
5) If you are familiar with opening the bottom cover, you may vacuum the interior, but be careful not to touch the heater or strings, concentrating primarily on the bottom corners. If you're unsure, it's best to call and wait for a professional to handle it.
The AFTER, look at the shine...
Seeing a beautiful piano at the end is so worth every minute. By the way, don't forget to polish the legs of the piano bench as well. They are a set.
Now comes the less therapeutic aspect: washing, cleaning, and storing the polishing cloth, brushes, duster, and so on after polishing. I prefer to rinse the polishing cloth with softener to keep it soft for the next use.
Maintaining your piano in this manner will not only help preserve its new appearance for a longer period but also contribute to the overall longevity and performance of the instrument. Regular cleaning and polishing not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the piano but also protect it from dust, dirt, and other harmful elements that could potentially damage its delicate components. Additionally, a well-maintained piano is more likely to retain its value over time and provide a more enjoyable playing experience.
Playing on a well-polished instrument can have a profound impact on the player's mood and performance. The smooth and polished keys can enhance the tactile experience, making it more comfortable and satisfying to play. Moreover, the visual appeal of a shiny piano can create a positive and inspiring environment, boosting motivation and creativity during practice sessions or performances. Overall, taking care of your piano and keeping it well-polished not only benefits the instrument itself but also enhances the playing experience for the musician.