Hoelling & Spangenberg

[simonguy]

Whilst finally emptying my late mothers house we found under the stairs an upright Hoelling & Spangenberg piano which was made in the 1950's - as sadly none of us plays the piano - before we dispose of this sadly unwanted piano, does anyone know anything about it - there is note to say this was given to my mother and father as a wedding present, which would have been in 1957 - and also would like some advice on how to dispose of it - we have already offered to some local schools but had not had any takers.

[Colin Nicholson]

The piano seems to have originated in Leipzig, Germany.... but no one can tell you anything about the piano unless we can see it here - there is no history in the book, just "mentioned". I suspect it may be older than the 50s.... if you could send a photo of the whole piano, and another one with the front panel removed (clear photo of the mechanism) - we may be able to give you more info. See 'how to upload an image' at top of the subjects.
(update)
I have seen one or two of these on expired auction sites just now,....
Between around 1900 - 1914, pianos were imported from Germany and became popular because of their better quality and sound. Most were overstrung & under-damped, and cabinets veneered in ebony, rosewood and walnut..... ivory keys, and the name inlaid in brass on the fallboard. Some were 'default' cabinets for retailers to add their own name (those with no crest or name inside). Mostly full iron frame/ partially exposed wrest plank (sprayed or lacquered gold to look like cast iron). Generally have a good sound in the bass, depending on condition.

From August 1914, imports ceased due to the War.

You can also advertise on 'Freecycle' or gumtree.... or start it on Ebay for £1.

hope that helps....

[WinstonChurchill]

Purely by coincidence I happened to be looking for info on this company today as well. I had one of their pianos about 20 years ago which I bought for $10 and which unsurprisingly (given the price) immediately fell to pieces. This page has some very brief history and some useful information on serial numbers: http://www.hoelling-spangenberg.de/index.html