Virtuoso lacking piano to bring into use (5)

I believe the answer is:

exert

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'bring into use' is the definition.
(to exert is to exercise or use)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for exert that I've seen before include "Employ" , "Bring (force) to bear" , "Cause (oneself) to make a strenuous effort" , "Bring into play, wield" , "Bring into operation" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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