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Bechstein Model E Concert Grand Piano

Notes from Mark & Julie

Mark’s summary of this piano

“When you consider the asking price, this piano is very impressive – both musically and cosmetically. Improvements could be made to the action and to the tone but these should not put off potential buyers as these are standard tasks for a competent piano technician. This piano represents a great opportunity for someone to own a very exciting concert grand piano for the same price as a brand new Chinese baby grand piano (piece of junk). Improvements could be made over time if you wish but it is fully working in its current condition. Alternatively, a piano trade person may wish to take this piano on as a full restoration project ready for showroom presentation.”

  • NOW SOLD

Specifications:

Model Bechstein Model E
Length ~9ft / ~274cm
Colour Ebony
Keys 88 Keys
Year 1902
Serial 1950 (this is the case number)

Full Description:

This is a Bechstein Model I (the model that was later replaced by the “Model E”) concert grand piano and is/was Bechstein’s largest production piano. The keys are possibly ivory but I can’t quite be sure this time. They may be very good replicas, I’m not exactly sure.

The casework is generally in very good condition for a piano of this age and length (concert grands can often get bashed around a bit). There is just an occasional bit of damage or chipped veneer. The cheeks (front corners) have some very attractive carvings that are still in very good condition and just need a little tidying up.

The front rail is in good condition (these are often in terrible condition) and the left side of the piano (which also is very often peppered with dents) is in very good condition.

There is some evidence of relatively recent restoration work being done to this piano approximately 10-20 years ago. The work included new strings, new pins, new felt, new hammers & dampers and the frame may have been resprayed and then handpainted with flowery motifs (see photos)

The piano has a very strong tone and excellent volume. It is very dramatic sounding, particularlyl in the bass section. The treble has a pretty tone all the way to the top… with the exception of the very last note which sounds a little weak but voicing and reposition of the hammers/action can address this minor issue. The “sustain” or “resonance” of this piano is excellent. The tone is a little punchy but once tamed it will sound awesome, I’m sure. The piano has an excellent dynamic range.

The legs & castors are original and in very good condition. The lyre is original and in very good condition. The action would benefit from some regulation as it doesn’t feel very even at the moment and feels like it needs “freeing up” a touch.

The metal frame is structurally sound as far as I can see and the soundboard appears to be in excellent condition.

summary

It comes with a lifetime warranty and if you have an existing acoustic piano we will pay at least £500 in part-exchange. Found a similar piano cheaper? Scroll down for our price promise.

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Sorry, this piano has been sold. Please view the 41 Yamaha pianos for sale in our Manchester and London piano shops.