Ivers and Pond Old Upright Piano to be restored in Kansas City, MO |
I receive calls every week to look at old upright pianos and tell them what it is worth. Most of the time I tell the customer to junk the old thing and go talk to the local piano dealers. I know the woodwork looks great and the carvings on the front are beautiful but what's on the inside. People tell me the swivel stool is worth more than the piano. Many have old ivory key tops that are falling off and need to be replaced with something that won't chip and look ugly. There was a lot of these pianos made at the turn of the century but the only thing there good for is furniture or firewood. Most can be found on craigslist under free piano you move but be aware that lots of them don't even have wheels. Piano tuning is my passion but I need to pass on this junk.
One thing to consider when looking at the old clunker is how heavy it is. If your going to move the piano yourself you will need some big guys. The piano could weigh between 400 to 1000 lbs and you will lose your best friends if you ask them to help. Professional piano movers don't like to move them especially if stairs are involved. Be sure to use lots of blankets for padding if you decide to move the piano yourself.
My advise would be to contact local piano stores and buy a new or used piano. They have a wide selection of pianos in a price range you can afford. Most of the local piano dealers offer piano lessons by experienced well trained piano teachers. The cost of piano tuning and service would be much less on a newer instrument.
Schmitt Music
Meyer Music
The Toon Shop
Piano Tuner in Kansas City, MO
(816) 587-9970
Piano Technicians Guild