Rare Steinway & Sons Style IV ‘Fancy’ Early Concert Scale Grand Piano
– Lodge & Spa at Three Forks Ranch
Steinway Style IV Early Concert Grand – Lodge & Spa at Three Forks Ranch – Chupp’s Pianos
Vintage Steinway Style IV Early Concert Grand Graces the Lodge at Three Forks Ranch
The ‘Fancy’ Cabinet Woodworking
Before the well-known Steinway Model D Concert Grand ruled the concert stage, there were a number of ‘Early Scale’ grands which were amazing instruments in their own right. A few years ago we rebuilt an 1868 Steinway & Sons Style 4 (Fancy) Early Concert Scale grand piano for the world famous Lodge & Spa at Three Fork’s Ranch in Savery, Wyoming. This Early Concert Scale design was the first Steinway to feature an 88-note grand piano scale. This was designed by company founder and patriarch Henry E. Steinway and his son Henry Steinway Jr. This era of Style 4 Concert Grands measure 8’5″ in length and a ‘full’ 7 1/4 octaves. [For comparison, a newly built Steinway Model D measures 8′ 11 3/4″ in length.] This particular Style 4 features an art case cabinet covered in magnificent Brazilian Rosewood veneer, a great example of the materials available to piano manufacturers during the ‘golden age’ of piano building.
This vintage early concert grand is a wonderful example of the historic innovation and craftsmanship of the Steinway company. The Style IV was an important step in the development of what we consider to be the modern concert grand piano. This piano required us to complete extensive rebuilding and refinishing work to return it to its rightful status. An advanced player piano system was also installed which continues to provide music to the many guests.
We were happy to complete the needed work on this rare grand piano which now graces the Great Room at the lodge. The beautiful Rosewood cabinet mixes beautifully with the extensive woodworking throughout the room. Chupp’s Piano Service owner Dennis Chupp travels out to the lodge every year to personally service this piano.
The Very Best in Piano Rebuilding
For over forty years, Chupp’s Piano Service has been providing premium level piano service to numerous universities, institutions and individual pianists across the country. Founded in 1975, we are proud to specialize in the restoration of ‘golden era’ Steinway Grand Pianos. During the pre-WWII era quality was high and craftsmen had access to the finest cabinet woods and other materials. The level of quality was incredible during this golden age of the piano. This tradition is one we have dedicated ourselves to continuing here at Chupp’s Piano Service. Our showrooms feature a large selection of fully restored pianos for sale. Our rebuilding work is very extensive and we spend many extra hours ensuring the iconic Steinway tone and touch returns to these vintage instruments. The Art of Piano Rebuilding is truly art you can feel!
Recent Works
Kurtzmann Vintage Upright Piano – Quartersawn Oak
Built in 1912 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.
Baldwin SD-10 Concert Grand Piano | Ebony – Restoration
One of the most famous names in music history, the mark of Baldwin has been affixed to some of the most coveted pianos ever manufactured. The legendary SD-10 Concert Grand Piano became the preferred choice of numerous concert artists and piano aficionados. During Baldwin’s heyday, they were only second to Steinway when it came to the length of their affiliated artist rolls. The Thursday Music Club of Zanesville, OH needed to return their Baldwin Concert Grand to a concert performance level. That is when they contacted the team here at Chupp’s Piano Service.
1926 Mason & Hamlin Model AA Grand Piano | Mahogany – Restoration
The piano’s serial number of #34557 indicates a factory manufacture year of 1926 meaning it was built in the company’s legendary Boston Factory prior to its closure later that decade.The cabinet features rounded arms with double, linked moldings wrapping around the case. The piano’s wide tail coupled with the brass ferrule capped legs create an imposing, strong stance. The minimalist music rack is eminently functional and contributes to the sturdy, American appearance of the piano. The cabinet is covered in a pleasant Mahogany veneer contrasting against the brass hardware and fallboard decal.
Steinway Model O Grand Piano Art Case/Crown Jewel | Louis XVI – Walnut – Restoration
Manufactured at the New York Steinway & Sons Factory, this beautiful Model O Grand Piano is a unique and rare instrument. The piano’s serial number indicates the manufacture year to be 1917. Crafted in an impressive double-legged Louis XVI style cabinet, this instrument embodies the sweeping, luxurious styles that were popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
1957 Steinway Model 45 Vertical Piano Art Case | Walnut – Restoration
Measuring 45″ in height, the Steinway & Sons Model 45 was one of the mid-sized offerings of Steinway’s vertical piano line. Of professional quality, these instruments were often selected for use in professional practice environments, as well as in homes. The instruments destined for home use were often clad in gorgeous woods and detailed art case cabinet designs. Steinway Model 45 #356674 is one of those instruments!
Steinway Model O Grand Piano Art Case/Crown Jewel | Brazilian Rosewood – Restoration
Manufactured at the New York Steinway & Sons Factory, this beautiful Model O Grand Piano is a unique and rare instrument. (The piano’s serial number indicates a date of 1916, Steinway records show a completion date of March 2nd, 1917.) Built in a ‘modern’ Sketch 380 Sheraton style case design, this piano features square arms and an arrow point music desk. Standing on octagonal spade style legs, this piano is virtually identical to ones built today. What makes this instrument a rarity is the wood that was utilized. The piano is covered with a rich veneer of exotic Brazilian Rosewood!
1906 Steinway & Sons Model B Grand Piano #124817 – Circassian Walnut
The Steinway & Sons Model B Grand Piano is one of the most legendary makes of piano ever crafted. It was this style of instrument that entertained First Class passengers onboard the R.M.S. Titanic and continue today as the preferred practice piano of countless amateur and professional musicians. Steinway & Sons Model B #124817 stands among the most stunning instruments we have ever had the chance to rebuild here at Chupp’s Piano Service. This particular piano was selected for restoration by a client and we are proud to be able to provide them with this musical piece of art.
Steinway Model B Grand Piano #430030 – Fireside Recording Studio – Parton/Wagoner
Built in 1972, Steinway & Sons Model B Grand Piano #430030 is a unique instrument with a rich musical history. Steinway & Sons Model B Grand Pianos are among the world’s most coveted instruments – often seen in professional institutions as recording instruments. Model B #430030 served in this capacity. This seven-foot grand was purchased and used at Fireside Recording Studio in Nashville, TN. This studio was founded by Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton.
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