Buying Restored vs. Buying New
Piano aficionados, especially those who appreciate the sound and quality of vintage Steinway grand pianos, are discovering they can have their cake and eat it too. They're enjoying the superb sound and exceptional quality of a Steinway piano at a more affordable price via total piano restoration.
Steinways have the reputation for offering an uncompromising standard of exceptional quality since 1853. Steinway pianos are famous for their incomparable sound, intuitive, responsive touch and are the preferred choice for more than 90% of the world's performing artists. In a hand written note, famous inventor and Steinway owner, Thomas Edison wrote, "I have decided to keep your grand piano. For some reason unknown to me it gives better results than any so far tried."
The Benefits Of Restoring A Vintage Steinway
A new Steinway grand piano today costs around $60,000. Restoring a vintage Steinway grand piano is around half that. And there are other advantages as well. Vintage Steinway pianos (generally built in 1942 and before) are constructed of solid, naturally seasoned wood and many possess real ivory covered keyboards. They also feature elegant cabinets with beautiful veneers and sometimes, intricate engravings.
Skilled artisans invest many hours of painstaking work into the process that takes several months to finish. Yet, when complete, the beautifully restored piano will look and sound like it's right off the showroom floor.
Vintage Investment Provides A Higher Payoff
As an investment, Steinway pianos appreciate in value. And a vintage instrument presents an even shrewder investment opportunity. Take for example one of our former customers, Alan Cox. When he purchased a 1923 Steinway grand piano with an African mahogany wood cabinet that we helped him find, he was simply looking for a superlative instrument for his New Jersey home. But the instrument that cost him $15,000 in 1996 is worth twice that today. A new Steinway that retailed for around $33,600 at the time would have inched up to a present value of slightly over $36,000.
Of course, avid musicians aren't in it for the money. They're interested in the pleasure of playing, the enjoyment of listening to and the satisfaction of owning the finest instrument available. But it's still nice to know you made a prudent investment.
Putting Your Piano In The Right Hands
Piano restoration is not just a skill, it's an art. And the best in the business consider it more than a business. They have a genuine love and appreciation for music and are committed to creating the finest instrument possible.
Even though restoration is less expensive than buying new, it's still a significant investment. So make sure you're confident in those doing the work. Research the company. How many years of experience do they have? What are their qualifications? Ask for references and check them. Whoever restores your vintage piano should give it the loving attention it deserves.
