Kurtzmann Louis XV Art Case Grand Piano – Circassian Walnut

Restored Vintage Kurtzmann Louis XV Style Art Case Grand Piano

Built in 1918 at the Kurtzmann Piano Factory of Buffalo, New York, this art case grand piano is a truly stunning example of historic piano manufacturing! The late 19th century through the early 20th century saw the golden era of the piano take form, as hundreds of competing companies fought to gain their share of the burgeoning piano market. This intense competition forged lasting quality and names that continue to represent the finest in craftsmanship. Kurtzmann was founded in 1848 by Christian Kurtzmann and production of pianos built under the Kurtzmann name continued into the 1930s.

This approx. 5’9″ grand piano is built in a traditional Louis XV style art case cabinet design. Designated a ‘Small Grand’ by Kurtzmann & Co., this musical instrument is comparable in size to a Steinway & Sons Model O/L. The cabinet boasts delicate carvings across the cabinet and sits on graceful, curved legs. This piano was presented to us by a client who requested its restoration.

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An exacting restoration process was performed on this art case grand piano. The cabinet is covered in a rich veneer of Circassian Walnut. This piano features some of the most figured and detailed walnut we have ever seen! The art case carvings required extensive repair in order to restore them to their original delicate appearance. The cabinet was refinished in a premium closed pore, hand rubbed satin finish and the original brass hardware was polished and sealed. This extensive repair and refinishing process required hundreds of hours of labor.

The original soundboard was found to be in good condition and was carefully restored and refinished. The cast iron plate was rebronzed and the raised lettering hand detailed. New high-quality music wire and custom manufactured copper wound bass strings by Mapes were coiled to Klinke blued tuning pins. The damper heads were refinished, new felt installed and the back action was restored and regulated. The action was fully rebuilt utilizing the highest quality parts. Expert action and tone regulation/voicing was performed to ensure a fine playing experience. At the request of the client, an advanced QRS PNOmation3 Player Piano System was installed along with a pickup and bluetooth capabilities. These systems are fully integrated into the piano and do not affect the playability of the instrument.

This piano is certainly among the most stunning pianos we have ever encountered. It is obvious that this piano was and is a very special find. According to documentation provided by the client, we have good reason to believe that this piano was at one time the personal piano of famed composer and bandleader, John Phillip Sousa. The name Kurtzmann may not be as familiar to piano aficionados as it once was, but it is clear that the company took much pride in their craftsmanship and handiwork.

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Our History – A Legacy of Craftsmanship

For over four decades, Chupp’s Piano Service, Inc. has been specializing in the rebuilding of the world’s finest pianos. With a focus on Steinway & Sons restorations, our work has become the preferred choice of concert venues, professional musicians, and universities across the country. Located in the heart of Northern Indiana, we are proud to carry on the old school tradition of high caliber craftsmanship. Our rebuilding facility and showroom features premium restored Steinway, new Kawai and select pre-owned Yamaha pianos. When completed properly a rebuilt piano truly becomes, art you can feel!

For more about our extensive restoration process, click here.

Chupps’ Piano Service, Inc. | Piano Restoration | Vintage Art Case Grand Pianos | Piano Sales & Service