Snapped a Piano String? Here’s Why You Shouldn't Fix It Yourself

Written By Jonathan Ho

A broken piano string can be frustrating — one key sounds off, and suddenly the whole instrument feels wrong. If you’re thinking, “Maybe I can fix this myself,” — hold that thought. Replacing a string might seem like a simple task, but it’s one of those repairs that’s best left to a professional technician.

It's Not a Simple Swap

Unlike other stringed instruments, piano strings are under extreme tension — often more than 150 pounds per string. They’re also wound through a complex path involving tuning pins, bridge pins, and agraffes or pressure bars. If something’s not aligned just right, it can cause:

  • Persistent tuning problems

  • Unwanted buzzing or muted tone

  • Structural damage to the piano

  • Premature string breakage all over again

One wrong move can create more problems than it solves.

What a Technician Brings to the Table

Professional piano techs don’t just replace a string — they restore balance to the whole instrument. They’ll:

  • Select the correct string gauge and length

  • Install and coil the string securely

  • Ensure it follows the proper path

  • Gradually bring it up to pitch without stressing the instrument

  • Blend the tone so the note sounds natural next to its unisons

If it’s a bass string (those thick, copper-wound ones), they’ll order a precise replacement — something that can’t be improvised with store-bought wire.

Should You Ever Try It Yourself?

Honestly? Only if you’re already experienced with piano repair, and it’s an old upright you’re not worried about damaging. Otherwise, the risk just isn’t worth it.

Bottom Line: Get a Pro

Hiring a technician might feel like a hassle, but for something as delicate as string replacement, it’s the smart move. Your piano will thank you — with better tone, tuning stability, and a longer lifespan.

Jonathan Ho

“When I imagine what it’s like to own my very own piano, my whole mindset changes when I see another piano. My approach and attention to detail becomes more personal and precise when I’m working on them.”

— Jonathan

Piano Technician and Performer

Jonathan grew up in Malaysia and lived in Vancouver before immigrating to the United States with his family. He earned his Bachelor of Music from the University of Central Oklahoma where he was a performer and taught piano lessons. In 2019, he moved to Boston to enroll in the piano technology program at North Bennet Street School, the oldest trade school in North America and widely considered to be the premier school of piano technology. During his time in Boston, he excelled in the intensive training program gaining an in-depth understanding of piano technology and service. After graduation, he was employed by two of the best piano rebuilders in the country (Oregon and Nebraska). In Nebraska, he continued to develop his service work with other technicians in the field in addition to the shop, gaining field tuning, regulation, and repair experience in both disciplines. Jonathan relocated to Saint Louis in 2023 to join the Vanguard Piano Service team and make the area his home.

Continued Education

Jonathan is passionate about piano technology and is committed to the continuing development of his craft. He attends the annual National and Regional Piano Technician Conventions. He has accepted opportunities to learn from other skilled piano professionals by visiting other technicians’ shops and touring manufacturer facilities. Jonathan will continue to enhance his skills by attending team trainings and professional development opportunities with the Piano Technician’s Guild.

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