Hauptmann Piano

[richardhk]

I have been given an upright piano which appears to date back to the 1800's The name "HAUPTMANN" is inset in brass, and inside the name Chas Stiles &Co Southampton Row is stated. I believe Chas Stiles & Co were the importers, but has anyone heard of the brand name Hauptmann, and I'm interested in the history of this piano ?

[Bill Kibby]

This is thought to be an alias used by Charles Stiles on pianos bought in from an anonymous German wholesaler. Most examples of "Hauptmann" pianos also have Stiles' name on them. Is there a serial number inbside?

1922 #21935 Hauptmann piano from Stiles, dated 7 OKT 1922 on keys.

Circa 1926? #27061 - Another Hauptmann from Stiles, #27061.

Have a look at pianogen.org

[richardhk]

Thank you Bill. There is a serial number - 22142. Will also have a look at your website

Regards

[Bill Kibby]

That seems to put it conveniently between 1922 and about 1926, or "circa 1924".

[Graham Westmore]

I am fascinated to learn that others have a Hauptman piano because I have searched long and hard for details of this make but without success until now. I happen to have Pavlova's piano (it was bought by my father from her house at Hampstead) and it has the name 'Hauptman' (only one 'N') inset in brass in the fallboard. it also has a serial number. Actually it's not really a very good piano and has a rather tinny sound, probably because it is just a 4ft 6 in baby grand. An upright would probably have a better sounding board than this!

[Bill Kibby]

So many people have a dream of owning a baby grand, but by the time space is allowed for the keys and action, there is very little string length or soundboard area, so despite attempts at double overstringing, tonal quality is sacrificed for beauty in what the French call "Crapaud" - a toad! Steck are perhaps the best exception to this idea, their little grands are amazing.

[Graham Westmore]

So many people have a dream of owning a baby grand, but by the time space is allowed for the keys and action, there is very little string length or soundboard area, so despite attempts at double overstringing, tonal quality is sacrificed for beauty in what the French call "Crapaud" - a toad! Steck are perhaps the best exception to this idea, their little grands are amazing.

I agree - that's why I've got a Steinway grand as well! I hang on to Pavlova's piano out of sentiment and for no other reason.