[pianotech] Value of Finished Product - Was Chrisman Grand

[Joseph Garrett]

Dale Erwin said:
"I think value needs to be ascribed to this kind of project in a new way.
Musical.
In our shop, even M Steinways aren't money makers as a spec project
anymore. If I get one for free it still a 30 K rebuild when all is replaced
and refinished. Whats it worth? Tried selling one lately?
At some point nothing is worth rebuilding if you can buy a 6 ft Wendel &
Lung etc. from China for 10 K. So the sales pitch needs to be based on the
outcome, inherent original quality and the final tonal result of a custom
rebuilt made and rebuilt in America(n) piano."

Dale,
And we can thank our Dealers for that one. ....I know, they're doing what
ever it takes to stay alive. BUT, they've shot us all in the foot with this
"Entry Level Piano" thang, imo.  Plus, the current socialogical thing is:
We want everything NOW and we want it CHEAP! (Enter WalMart and such,
selling Cheap Crap to the general pubic) This is not only in the Musical
Instrument Business, but in the Musical Performance Business. Sigh!!! Sucks
in my opinion. No one really knows what a piano is SUPPOSED to sound like,
for gosh sakes! More of the entire Music Industry Selling the Public a bill
of goods, imo. End of Rant.
Thanks for listening/reading.
Regards to all,
Joe
Joe Garrett, R.P.T.
Captain of the Tool Police
Squares R I