In the realm of music, few roles are as dramatically nuanced and often misunderstood as that of the piano tuner. The mere utterance of the term evokes images of an artisan meticulously adjusting the tensions of multiple strings, thus creating an instrument capable of expressing human emotions in a manner that few other medium can. Yet, the world of piano tuning is shrouded in multiple myths, ten of which we seek to debunk in this discourse.

The first myth centers around the perspective that piano tuning is a simple, mechanical task. This perception could not be farther from reality. Piano tuning is an intricate craft that demands a deep knowledge of physics and acoustics. Specifically, the tuner must grasp the concept of equal temperament, a principle rooted in mathematical logarithms and multiplicative frequency ratios which balance the specific pitches of the 12 notes per octave in Western music. The success of the piano tuner is contingent upon applying this principle to achieve the perfect compromise in the tuning of intervals.

The second myth propounds that all pianos sound the same when properly tuned. This notion overlooks the vast variations inherent in piano manufacturing. Pianos are not merely instruments, but individual creations. Everything from the quality of the wood to the tension of the strings can contribute to a piano’s timbre and tonal quality. Consequently, two identically tuned pianos may produce distinctly different sounds.

A third prevalent myth contends that modern technology has made the piano tuner's job obsolete. While it's true that digital tuners can provide a good starting point for tuning a piano, they cannot account for the multitude of factors that influence a piano's sound—like its age, the room’s humidity, or the precise tension necessary for each of a piano's 220 (or more) strings. Even with advancements in technology, the subtleties of piano tuning still require an experienced human touch.

The fourth myth postulates that a piano need only be tuned when it sounds out of tune. However, regular tuning can prevent damage and maintain the piano's health. Elasticity in the strings can cause them to stretch and lose their pitch, even when not played often. Regular tuning corrects this phenomenon, known as inharmonicity, and extends the lifespan of the piano.

The fifth myth presupposes that piano tuners can only tune pianos. However, many piano tuners offer additional services such as voicing (adjusting a piano's tone or quality of sound), regulation (adjusting the mechanical parts of the piano for optimal performance), and repairs.

The sixth myth is that piano tuning doesn't require formal education. While it's true that some piano tuners are self-taught, many undergo rigorous training and certification. Proficiency in this field requires an understanding of intricate mechanical systems, a fine ear, and an in-depth knowledge of music theory.

The seventh myth assumes that piano tuners can work on any piano. This is not necessarily the case. Different brands and types of pianos require specific knowledge and techniques. Some high-end brands may void their warranty if an uncertified individual attempts to tune the piano.

The eighth myth conjectures that temperature and humidity do not affect a piano's tune. This is incorrect. Changes in temperature and humidity can cause the wood in a piano to swell or contract, thus affecting the tension of the strings and the pitch of the notes.

The ninth myth is that moving a piano will automatically detune it. While moving can affect a piano's tune, especially if the instrument is exposed to changes in temperature or humidity, the correlation is not absolute. A well-built, well-maintained piano can often withstand a move without significant detuning.

The final myth is that piano tuners can't make a good living. In reality, the income of a piano tuner largely depends on their skill level, the demand in their area, and the array of services they offer. Many piano tuners enjoy a comfortable living, particularly those who specialize in high-end, concert-quality pianos.

In this exploration of the myths encircling piano tuning, one can appreciate the artistry, the science, and the nuanced skills required of a piano tuner. Far from being a simple mechanical task, piano tuning is a complex symphony of acoustics, physics, and music theory. It requires a finely tuned ear, an understanding of the individuality of each piano, and a sensitivity to the delicate interplay of factors that culminate in the creation of harmonious music. It is a testament to the enduring allure of the physical and the tactile in an increasingly digital world.