Vintage Art Case Grand Pianos – Video Demos
The piano has long been a striking combination between its function as a musical instrument and as a piece of visual art. This was especially true during the early ‘golden era’ of the piano manufacturing industry. Steinway & Sons was among the many companies battling for supremacy during these competitive years. Experienced craftsmen combined with easy access to the finest woods and other materials resulted in some of the finest playing – and looking pianos ever crafted. Although today’s new Steinways are rarely seen outside of their ‘traditional’ more modern design, expert restoration work allows musicians and appreciators of fine art the chance to experience the characteristics that have made vintage art case pianos so treasured. Below are several videos we have produced highlighting the work of the craftsmen and technicians here at Chupp’s Piano Service, Inc.
Steinway & Sons Model A-3 Grand Piano #188826 – Quarter Sawn Oak, Sketch 380 Cabinet.
Covered in a beautiful Quarter Sawn Oak veneer, this rare Steinway was built in 1918. Fully rebuilt by us this piano features a new solid spruce soundboard, new hard rock maple pinblock, a fully rebuilt action and much more. Quarter Sawn Oak was utilized rarely on Steinway grand pianos. This instrument is currently featured at our Goshen, IN. Piano Showroom alongside a number of other ‘Crown Jewel’ style grand pianos.
Steinway & Sons Model D #52626 – Brazilian Rosewood, Empire Style Cabinet
Built in 1885, Steinway Model D #52626 was among the first modern concert grand pianos built by the legendary company. Manufactured during a period in which competition for concert stage supremacy was fierce, this Model D is among the finest concert grands we have ever had the pleasure of rebuilding. The piano features rare Empire style legs and is covered in a rich veneer of Brazilian Rosewood. Restoration included a new solid spruce soundboard, new hard rock maple pinblock, a fully rebuilt action and much more. This piano was purchased by and delivered to a well-known businessman in Wyoming.
Steinway & Sons Model B #180473 – Circassian Walnut, Louis XV Style Cabinet
The Louis XV cabinet design is one of the most popular designs ever utilized on art case pianos. Sadly, Steinway no longer produces these pianos in any size larger than the 5’7″ Model M. Steinway Model B #180473 combines a graceful Rococo design with concert level power and responsiveness. Covered in a figured Circassian walnut, this piano underwent an exacting restoration process. The original factory soundboard was repaired and retained, the action was fully rebuilt and much more. This piano was sold to a client in Dubai, UAE.
About Us: Chupp’s Piano Service, Inc. was founded in 1975 by Master Piano Technician Dennis Chupp. Over our forty plus years of business, we have restored pianos for universities, performance venues and pianists around the world. With a careful focus on the highest quality, our restoration work ensures that each piano we restore is returned to its rightful status as a high performance, golden era piano. Our rebuilding facility is located in the heart of the Midwest in Northern Indiana and we work with clients across the continent to ensure they receive their dream piano. Get in contact with us for more information.
Chupp’s Piano Service | Fine Piano Restoration since 1975
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