Vince, Gertrude Steinway, as she was named by a former professor at IC, had the "works" done at Steinway in the 50's. My guess is that was the only soundboard replacement but I cannot be certain. I replaced the pinblock, strings and action parts about 12 years ago. She also got a new coat. The keysticks could stand to be replaced and the action frame needs some attention as well. But, the rim is in good condition so she could last quite some time as I see it. Perhaps another soundboard in 20 years? Not bad for 115 years old! How long will it be before we can get our old parts replaced? :) Who knows how long pianos like this can last as a viable instrument. There are many out there. Unfortunately, none of us will be around in 100 years to see how well the current quality Asian pianos will last in academia. Anybody know a fortune teller? Don > When you say it has been rebuilt twice, do you mean action & strings, or > everything? E.g., did it get a new soundboard twice? > Situations like practice room pianos that are worth rebuilding again and again, > in order to be kept "like new", will eventually need new keysets to further > extend their life (after, say 30 or so years?). Probably two restringings > before a new pinblock (20 years or so). Maybe a new soundboard and bridge caps > after 40 years or so. I believe a practice room piano would need to have > action rebuilding every 8 to 10 years, and repinning and hammer shaping, etc. > in between times. Generally speaking of course. > vince >
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