Rebuilding a Piano

When a piano gets to ninety or a hundred years old it can be considered to have reached the end of its working life. If the piano is an overstrung, underdamped upright model with a full iron frame, or an overstrung grand with a roller action, then it is worth considering a rebuild.

Rebuilding involves replacing all the strings, tuning pins, felt, key coverings, hammers, bushings and repolishing the case. In fact a rebuilt piano should give the impression of having just left the showroom as a brand new piano. The rebuild option is always the best one for a piano that was a top of the range model when it was new. The sound and action on such a piano is far superior to many modern instruments.

Other types of piano can sometimes be rebuilt when there is sentimental value. A much loved piano belonging to a relative can be rebuilt to give it another hundred years of life. A rebuild will also create the option of handing the instrument on to the next generation.

Rebuilding must be carried out by a specialised piano rebuilding company. Once contacted they will usually, send out an assessor to observe the condition and type of piano. From that report the rebuilders will make up a quote based on the work required. A reputable company will also issue a breakdown of the work, itemising and explaining why each item is required.

Tuners Restoration

Square pianoBob Newman

Sometimes an old piano isn't worth rebuilding. In such a case a tuner or technican can offer to undertake work on a piano that will restore the worn parts of an action and render it to a working condition.

A tuners restoration usually includes work such as replacing the bridle tapes, fitting new damper felts and springs, replacing jack springs, replacing coverings and so on.

Contact us for more information about the services that we can provide in Cambridge and the East Anglia region.