The Sounds of History
A fully restored, vintage Steinway & Sons, Mason & Hamlin or other fine make of grand piano offers a great value. Although the lower price tag, when compared to a brand new, one is a component of that, this value goes far deeper.
During the height of the piano industry, craftsmanship in North American piano factories was at its peak. Hundreds of companies, thousands of pianos and countless man hours resulted in the refinement of the piano as a musical instrument. As the premier entertainment and luxury item available at that time, everyone just had to own a piano! Advancements in plate design, action geometry, rim pressing and more changes piled on top of each other. Out of the intensity of the ‘golden age’ of piano making came some of the finest instruments ever built.
Brazilian Rosewood Cabinet
Achievable Luxury
Rosewood, figured mahogany, Circassian walnut, real ivory. These materials were plentiful and used extensively during the early days of the piano industry. Today, it is rare to see these utilized on smaller projects, let alone on an item as large as a piano. Art case cabinet designs were actually quite common and are almost unseen in today’s new market. Buying a vintage piano opens up a whole new world of options beyond the traditional (albeit attractive) ebony cabinet finishes.
The selection of a properly rebuilt grand piano originally built during this period ensures a character, a quality of tone and a majesty that in many cases have long since been relegated to the books of history. Expertly rebuilt and finely regulated, these vintage grand pianos offer a glimpse into an era gone by, combined with a like new stability and responsiveness.
Looking Beyond the Exterior
It is important to note that if you do decide to look into the purchase of a vintage grand piano, that you look beyond the cabinet. The art of piano rebuilding goes well beyond the refinishing of the exterior. The restoration of a piano can normally be divided into three parts, the belly (soundboard, pinblock, plate, strings, etc.), the action (hammers, shanks, flanges, wippens, keys, etc.) and the cabinet finish. A complete restoration takes hundreds of man hours with an end result that is well worth the extensive labor. If you are currently looking into the purchase of a piano, we highly suggest that you consider the selection of a fully restored, vintage instrument. We here at Chupp’s Pianos truly believe that you may find this to be your very best option.
About Us: Chupp’s Piano Service, Inc. was founded in 1975 by Master Piano Technician Dennis Chupp. Specializing in the rebuilding of vintage grand pianos, our work has become the preferred choice of numerous concert pianists, Steinway Artists, concert venues and institutions around the world. Our facilities in Northern Indiana offer an uncommonly large selection of fully restored and original condition Steinway and Mason & Hamlin grand pianos for you to select from. Contact us today for additional information. We are happy to serve!
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