Do 19th Century Pianos Sound Good?

How do 19th century pianos stack up sound against modern pianos?

How do the older 19th century pianos compare in sound to our modern counterparts. With the new technologies we have today, along with the natural design evolution of the piano, one of the differences is that we can add far more tension on the strings. This provides more power and better tone quality of sound than the earlier pianos. See this sound comparison that illustrates the difference. It has some fun facts about the history and evolution of the piano.

Colorado Piano Buyers - Is Wells Piano going out of business

Shopping for a piano in Colorado early 2011? Is Wells Piano closing their doors forever?

Apparently its all about who you want to call them, not if they are or are not disappearing or going out of business. Here is an interesting take on that subject from Bob Baker of Bakers Piano.

I will post more information as I get it. Let me know what you think.

Buying or Selling Your Piano On Craigslist?

What do you need to know when buying and selling your piano on Craigslist?

Craigslist is a great resource for all of us who are looking to buy or sell a whole range of products and services. But when it comes to buying or selling a piano, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. As many prospective piano buyers are looking to get the "best deal" possible, you may have a hard time getting a fair value for your piano (if selling.)
2. If looking to buy a piano, do not be fooled by an amazing price and great brand name. Always get a professional to evaluate the condition of your prospective instrument. I can't tell you how many times I have been called in to work on a "free" piano that should be in the garbage heap.
3. Take your time whether shopping on Craigslist or anywhere for that matter. Buying the right piano for you requires that you slow down and take time to make sure that you have covered the bases.
4. If selling your piano, it may not hurt to engage an intermediary (qualified piano technician) who is willing to act as a buffer, to answer questions from prospective buyers. It can be worth a cut of the action (small percentage of sale) so that you do not waste time answering a million questions from laypeople who are fishing.
   
5. If selling your piano, make sure it is up to snuff as much as possible - tuned, cleaned, all keys working; before you put up for sale. This will help you get the best price possible when asking your price.