Brinsmead Pianos

[jonhastings]

I'm considering buying a Brinsmead piano made in the 1940's. Were these good quality pianos and is there anything I should particularly look out for? Another option is a Barrett and Robinson built in about 1980. Pros and cons?

[Colin Nicholson]

This could also be John Brinsmead - established 1836 and taken over by Kemble in the late 60's.
Get the serial number checked out to verify the date, if its 1940's, it will start 84XXX and be a 5 digit number, inside the piano near tuning pins or on the soundboard. A well-known name in the piano world.

Also make sure the tuning pins are OK by a tuner (testing the torque) and ensure it is 'reasonably' in tune. If its 1940's, the mechanism should be under-damped and stringing over-strung.

Barratt & Robinson (check the spelling) - a well - known make, and again, if its 1980's, get the date checked out by the serial number. Also on any piano, check the condition of the hammers, strings and generally its playing ability. Both are English makes, and depending on its condition & price - its up to you. Also check out the general tone of the piano. Be aware of a piano if previously kept in cold/damp conditions, i.e. rusty strings, tuning pins - but most important, make the sure the wrest plank is sound by getting a tuner to try out the occasional tuning pins.

[jonhastings]

Thanks for responses. It is a John Brinsmead and the serial no. tallies with your description Colin.

[Colin Nicholson]

To date your piano more accurately (within a year or 2), here are the serial numbers for Brinsmead in the 1940's - but only recorded every five years. By subtracting the larger number from the smaller, then divide by 5 will tell you how many per year, then add on the number each time till it is close to yours. I think around 70 pianos per year, so 1941 will be #84220 (roughly)

Year 1940 = #84150
Year 1945 = #84400
Year 1950 = #84750

Didn't make many pianos during those years because of the War, but the above will give you a guide.

Colin