Tune Up

Last week I received a message from Zach, the “Rewind Piano” tuner who reminded me that it is time for our yearly checkup.  I got thinking about how we, as people, can be compared to a piano.

Ponder these things:

1.       Check-up – We all need to ensure that everything, physically and mentally is functioning at optimal levels.  It isn’t easy to notice small changes over time that can end up causing problems over the longer term.  Booking regular medical and self-care appointments can help you to stay in touch not only with how you as a person have changed but also what might help you to stay well.

2.       Professionals – Why do we think that “No news is good news”?  Do we ignore changing the oil in the vehicles and just cross our fingers with the hope that they will keep going?  I am amazed at the research-based knowledge and new techniques that my providers can offer me when I visit them.  Zach is a young musician who is also a composer, and this gives him added insight into how a piano should sound.  It is wonderful to hear him play a tune after he has completed the tuning work because he is truly a unique expert in the music field!  We need to ensure that those who we trust with our health are as competent as Zach is with my piano.

3.       Adjustments – It can be annoying as well as fascinating to watch Zach do his work.  Most of the time he is repeatedly clicking keys, listening carefully, assessing and, at the same time, manipulating the parts for needed changes.  All of us need physical as well as mental and attitudinal adjustments at times.  Unfortunately, these are often found in different places rather than from one person who can tune us up!

4.       Age and Size – My upright was apparently manufactured in Canada between 1920 and 1930, likely by Heintzman but the name was changed by the retailer to Scythes and Co.   Zach found a business card on the inside that revealed that it had once been tuned in July 1962. When my friend moved into a nursing home, I tried and tried to give away her old upright piano but no one would take it.  Many prefer a smaller keyboard, but I am biased and love the piano that I own.  None of us can change our age but if we are playing a good tune and staying in shape, the birthday we celebrate is just a number.  We can, however, change our names over the years and even our size by eating nutritionally while incorporating some exercise.

5.       Moving – It isn’t easy to move over 600 pounds.  Pianos are awkward and there is always a risk of damaging them during the process.  I have moved my piano several times and am pleased that it still sounds wonderful!

6.       Soundboard – This and the ribs that hold it together are the heart of a piano but there are also many moving parts.  Humidity and the amount the piano is played determine how often it can lose its tune.  Interestingly, as humans, we are approximately 80% water and therefore need to stay properly hydrated and appropriately active.

7.       Finish – No Botox for my piano! When I was in Medicine Hat, though, I hired a group at the College to refinish it and the piano bench.  It was fun to see the football team players who were recruited to move the piano in and out of my townhouse.  I often receive compliments from guests who admire the way that the wood has been restored.  For us, as individuals, a colourful outfit, well-chosen jewelry and a good haircut can increase our attractiveness too!

8.       Boundaries – I live in a condo in Calgary now and am always respectful of my neighbours by not playing the piano too early in the morning or late at night.  Respect goes two ways and each of us needs to know what we will do and what we need to keep good relations with others.

9.       Choice of tunes – Some of us are as complicated as a Mozart Sonata while others live simple lives of basic notes.  The mood and attitude that we reveal to ourselves can range from gospel to jazz, country to grunge, or other styles all played on an unlimited choice of instruments.  Some of us having lilting melodies while others play more serious and complex tunes.  And all of us, at times, play a little of each!

10.   Joy – My whole life I have been surrounded by music.  I began taking piano lessons when I was six years of age and particularly enjoyed being able lead a choir, serve as organist in a church and provide “elevator-type” music at special events.  I love my piano and my life.  This is evidenced by the music that I play for myself and for others.

How would you describe your life in comparison with music?  Are you someone who inspires, entertains and enjoys your own tunes?  One of my favorite expressions is “It’s not the words you say, it’s the music you play”.  Something to think about!