ADD 50 TO 70 YEARS OF LIFE TO A PIANO.

Reconditioning implies conserving, repair, and replacement. Rebuilding involves the replacement of most of the parts. Most pianos, even though neglected, do not need to be rebuilt. Minor repairs and the replacement of some incidental parts or surfaces may be all that is needed. If the condition of the piano is good, but the functioning of the parts is no longer optimal, several levels of reconditioning might be initiated. Reconditioning is always the beginning of a full regulation. Rebuilding is necessary if the parts are severely worn. The piano possibly will play better than first purchased because of the manufacturing constraints at the factory, and the care and meticulous work by the technician.

Peter remains available for appraising pianos eligible for purchase from a private party, and may determine suitability for reconditioning or rebuilding.

Some examples of reconditioning include:

• Key end felt, with divots, needing rejuvenation or replacement.
• Let-off button felt indented and misshapen, needing rejuvenation or replacement.
• Key bushing felt needing rejuvenation or replacement.
• Capstans needing polishing, keytops buffed, sides sanded, lead weights secured, keyboard leveled.
• Hammers re-shaped, spaced, and fit to the strings.
• Stripped screw holes repaired, cracked parts repaired, everything cleaned; and the list goes on…

Most any piano would benefit from a technician to spend the effort of reconditioning.

We will be documenting piano rebuilds and  restorations in various stages of work.

The idea is to educate clients, musicians  and piano enthusiasts about the challenges  and complexities of restoring these fine
works of art.