As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Rebuilding a Steinway piano can be a significant investment, with costs varying widely depending on the level of restoration required.
If you’re looking at a full restoration of a grand Steinway, from my exposure to the field and what I’ve seen others by authorized Steinway Restoration Centers, you could be spending upward of 70% of the cost of a new Steinway piano.
This includes meticulous work on the soundboard, action, strings, and cabinet, ensuring the piano retains its value and legendary sound. It’s all labor intensive, and understandably, the costs are what they are.
Want to Learn Piano?Click Here
An acquaintance of mine recently had their Steinway Model B grand piano rebuilt, and the expense for the complete restoration fell within the range of roughly $50,000 – $70,000.
While the initial figure sounds steep, it’s important to remember you’re investing in an instrument that, once restored by professionals like those found at Piano Artisans, can last for generations, providing unparalleled sound quality and mechanics that stand the test of time.
Opting for a rebuild often means your Steinway will come back to you with a fresh lease on life, something I’ve personally seen transform old pianos into majestic centerpieces.
The restoration process usually includes replacing worn parts, refinishing the piano’s exterior, and several other customization options that can affect the final price. It’s about striking the right balance between cost and the desired level of refurbishment to make sure your piano serves you well for many more years.
Understanding Steinway Piano Restoration Costs
Restoring a Steinway piano involves a range of processes, each with its own set of costs based on the piano’s condition and the quality of materials used.
Assessment of Condition and Needs
The first step in restoring a Steinway piano is a comprehensive inspection to assess its condition. This involves a detailed consultation with a rebuilder to identify necessary repairs or replacements. This will determine the scope of the restoration process and ultimately, the cost.
The Rebuilding Process
Rebuilding a Steinway piano can be extensive, involving replacement parts from Steinway & Sons to maintain the integrity and value of the instrument. Each restoration service is unique, incorporating the rebuilder‘s craftsmanship to work on tuning pins, piano strings, and the pinblock.
Soundboard and Action Reconditioning
A pivotal part of restoration is addressing the soundboard and action. For instance, a diaphragmatic soundboard may need complete replacement or just reconditioning, significantly impacting costs.
Similarly, action regulation ensures that hammers, felts, and other moving parts are in top condition, which is key for a Steinway’s touch and feel.
Refinishing and Aesthetic Restoration
The visual appeal of your Steinway is important too. Refinishing includes stripping the old finish, prepping the wood, and applying lacquer to reveal the beautiful wood grain. The choice of materials and desired finishes can affect the cost, with some options being more valuable than others.
Cost Factors and Considerations
Restoration costs can vary widely. Minor touch-ups might come at a lower cost, while full-scale grand piano restoration can require a significant investment.
Consider the value of using authorized parts and services for longevity and performance, which often justifies the expense.
Hello & thanks for stopping by! I’m a professional concert pianist and piano instructor. In the United States, I’ve given successful performances in several places including New York, Florida, Connecticut, & New Jersey, I have also performed internationally in Italy and made my Carnegie Hall debut in 2014. I enjoy blogging about the piano, the art of performance, general music, current events and the latest in music production.