Piano Actions.

[Jesus]

Hi all,

I am interested in buying a John Brinsmead & Sons. I have already checked the serial number and the piano is around 100 years old. I would like to know what you think about the action of this pianos, are they typical roller actions? I have been searching about piano actions and I now know that Brinsmead developed his own actions among other piano improvements.

Regards,

Jesus

[Gill the Piano]

More importantly, you must make sure that it isn't the patent Brinsmead tuning system; it required its own special crank to tune it, and hardly anyone has one. If it's a grand and it's the Brinsmead system, the tuning pins will be horizontal rather than vertical. Be careful!! Many people have bought 'a bargain' only to find it's untuneable.

[sussexpianos]

Why would you want a 100 year old grand? They were hardly anything special. The costs involve in getting these instruments in to something resembling a well regulated instrument are high, not to mention the tired soundboard!

[joe]

Totally agree,but many people think cheap is good

[joseph]

er, to the original poster, is that REALLY you? I have some questions.... LOL...

Yeah, a 100 year old Brinsmead is probably best avoided. If you want a 100 year old grand in original condition and want it cheap, perhaps get a Bechstein or a Bluthner but really don't pay much for it, I mean like between one and two thousand tops, and only then if you feel you love it.

I don't know what you'll use the piano for or what kind of playing you'll do, but I think a modern upright would be better for the same kind of money.

[sussexpianos]

It is hard to explain to people the economics of restoration when they see a load of nice looking uprights and the odd grand piano outside my workshop in the rain, waiting to be retired. Hammers do not last for ever, you can sand them 2 to 4 times depending on the amount needed to be removed but they get lighter and the tone gets harsher. There are many parts which wear out and it gets to a point when the action is not doing the musician any favours!
But I guess some people are oblivious to it, " it makes a sound? What’s wrong with it?"