Kurtzmann Vintage Upright Piano – Quartersawn Oak

Restored Vintage Kurtzmann Upright Piano in Quartersawn Oak

          

Built in 1912 at the Kurtzmann Piano Factory of Buffalo, New York, this imposing upright 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.

---

Demonstration Video: A Christmas Love Song – QRS PNOmation System

---

This vertical instrument was presented to our team for restoration by the same client who owns the Louis XV Kurtzmann Grand Piano we’ve featured previously! Kurtzmann Upright #44626 weighs in at just under 900 pounds and stands at 54″ in height. Boasting a cabinet design focused on straight lines and honed corners, the sharply designed case is complimented by flowing patterns provided by the quarter sawn oak veneer. Imposing front support posts and large cheeks continue the impressive design language. Nickel plated hardware contrasts against the dynamic wood grain. An exacting restoration process was performed on this art case vertical instrument. Quartersawn oak is one of our favorite wood veneers, and this piano definitely did not disappoint! The cabinet was refinished in a premium closed pore, hand rubbed satin finish and the original nickel plated hardware was polished and sealed. This extensive repair and refinishing process required hundreds of hours of labor.

A new custom fitted, solid spruce soundboard was installed along with a new hard maple pinblock. 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 entire damper system was expertly 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. New keytops were installed and the original ebony sharps were retained, cleaned, and restored. 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 instrument, upon the completion of its full restored, has become one of the most impressive upright pianos we have ever had the pleasure to have in our facility. 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 – a tradition we are pleased to help in continuing. 

---

Demonstration Video: Blue Hoosier Blues – QRS PNOmation System

---

Our History – A Legacy of Craftsmanship

Since this instrument was built in 1912, nations have come and gone! A century of history – all represented and remembered by musical instruments such as this. 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