Old uprights - think twice?

[Brian Lawson]

Here, the market is primarily second hand uprights (verticals), the cost of
new pianos like a U1 are in the same price range as a new small car, 15
years ago it compared to the price of a small used car.

The dealer I do work for, won't buy and then sell a piano which he cant give
a 10 year guarantee for, and most pianos average age are from the earlier
part of 20th century, ie. 2 Bechstein model 10's  - both very good pianos,
straight strung but superb tone. Those type of pianos seem as they were made
to last.

Brian Lawson, RPT
Johannesburg, South Africa

 >
> << riends,
>
>  I am wondering if there is a gradual change in our thinking taking place
>  regarding old uprights.  Ten years ago I would have thought that the
>  best way to advise owners of these pianos is that they be disposed of.
>
>  Yet some of them were very well built, and it seems to me that there is
>  a slow but increasing sentiment that at least the better ones are worth
>  keeping.  Should we show these old beasts more respect?
>
>  Regards,
>  Clyde Hollinger, RPT >>
>
> Hi Clyde,
>
> I'm all for showing the better made old uprights with fancy cases more
> respect.  These instruments are not only good instruments but unique
pieces
> of furniture too.  Mr. Bolduc would love to expand his market for
pinblocks
> and soundboards also.  My hunch is a lot of these instruments will be
getting
> "rebuilt" in the coming years.
>
> Happy holidays everybody.
>
> Doug Mahard