In search of a 9' Brinsmead straight strung grand

[Jpyke]

Good morning,

I'm posting here in the vain hope that someone might have a client or know of someone who owns a 9' Brinsmead that they might be willing to sell. I've been on the search for one for some time and I think I can safely say that they are as rare as hens teeth.

I have a watch on the usual places such as eBay and Gumtree, but this has proven fruitless so far. The 7' model by contrast seems far more plentiful, but that extra 2' must surely do wonders for the low bass. There must be one languishing in an old institution or church/chapel somewhere!

Why do I want one? You may well ask. Well several reasons, it's a British make, which carries some appeal, but I do like the sound of a reasonable length straight strung grand, there's something special in the lower treble/upper bass region that I find appealing, especially for classical music. Also, I have seen and tried a 9' Brinsmead and was surprised how good it sounded (and felt) to play. It had several interesting features including duplex scaling, a fully cast in top bridge and sostenuto pedal.

Any info would be greatly appreciated!

Many thanks

James

[Colin Nicholson]

Hi James

Yes, quite rare.
You could possibly contact Conways auctions in Holborn, London, who may have some suggestions/ links, however, I've just flicked through about 2 years' worth of their piano auctions, and no Brinsmeads. Here is their website >>

http://www.pianoauctions.co.uk/index.php

Their next piano auction is on 11th December (and you can bid online).

They may be able to store your wish list, and get back to you should one become available, or possibly look at Broadwoods straight strung grands. Don't forget, unless otherwise stated, some of the top names are unrestored and may need work doing.

Not sure if Ebay/ Gumtree is specialised enough.... maybe try Phillips Piano auctions (London) aswell?

Hope that helps..

Colin

[Jpyke]

Thanks Colin, definitely worth pursuing. I've been along to one of the Conway hall auctions before, but hadn't thought to see if I could register an interest in something specific. Is the Phillips auctions a separate entity? When I search using google it takes me to the pianoauctions.co.uk site.

I'm not averse to having to do some work to get it back into good order, in fact I rather relish that aspect of it, although it doesn't want to be so far gone as to be a complete money pit!