Unknown Model

[BG431]

Hi all,

I had a Piano left at my house when I moved in - I've tried searching for a model number etc. but have been unable to find one. It's in full working order but unfortunately it's completely wasted on me and I'm looking to get rid of it. Could someone please point me in the right direction of where I'm likely to find this info out - I've had the panels off but can't see a plate anywhere.

Thanks

[Colin Nicholson]

This piano name doesn't show up in any piano listings/ serial number book, and it is likely to be a "stencil piano" .... if you click on this link and scroll about half way down, there is an explanation about stencil pianos....

http://www.aatuners.com/piano-age.html


This piano is not known, and it won't have a model number - trust me.
Only your mid-market/ high end piano names have model numbers - and they are usually in raised iron lettering - on the right hand side of the cast iron frame.

Even if you did find some numbers inside, don't get too excited!.... they won't be traceable, and only unique to the factory who built this piano. Many pianos were built just as a blank cabinet or a shell - for a name to be added with a stencil/decal kit later. It looks like an English makers - typical "streaky bacon" polish & stain added.
I've tuned a few with similar shape.... Squire & Son/ Chappell/ Bentley etc.... but these have been over-strung & under-damped.

If you remove the front panel & take a photo inside - we'll tell you the design. I wouldn't be tempted to lift out the mechanism either - leave that to a piano tuner if appropriate. If any bridle tapes break - the mechanism may also break if you attempt to remove & relocate it.

It looks around 1920 - 1930 and by the design & size of the left hand key block (either side of the keys).... it may be straight-strung, and possibly overdamped.
Has a slight "1950s" look to it by the rounded corners - but I think the dual legs make it earlier.


Simple solution is to pop it on Ebay as an "upright piano" - start bid around £10 (no reserve)... but rarely sell for more than about £40 - £50. Some don't sell at all.
Remove the ink/ letters from the piano keys, a quick tidy up - and see what happens.
A piano tuning may cost more than the piano is worth.... and it is likely the piano has been left there for a reason... could be some other problems?

Hope that helps

[BG431]

Thanks very much for your detailed reply, it's very much appreciated! In other circumstances I'd keep it however I need the space I'm afraid - the chap I bought the house from left a range of items and this is one of the last to go. I'm aware I'll not be breaking the bank with this, and it's definitely seen better days but I wanted to be able to list it with as much detail as possible as I'd like someone to get some use out of it. I'll take a pic with the front panel removed and post it later today!

Thanks again

[Colin Nicholson]

Also depends on the location for removal?
If ground floor/ easy - straight forward access, should shift fine.
If a flight of stairs involved/ basement etc.. buyers might be reluctant.