You might have heard these terms used in describing used pianos. But exactly what is the difference between rebuilding a piano and simply reconditioning one? Is there a real distinction between the two? There definitely is.
Whether or not you will be looking at a rebuild or a reconditioning really depends upon the condition the piano is in. Generally, the distinction of rebuilding is when the cast iron plate of the piano is removed. Removing the plate is a very big deal – it requires an engine hoist; as the plate weighs more than the rest of the piano combined. When removing the plate, the strings, pins, and bolts are removed first. Then the plate is lifted out.
Rebuilding is necessary when the soundboard or pinblock are compromised. The reason for removing a plate is so important is that it allows the technician to get to the belly of the piano. The soundboard can be refinished; it can be shimmed if necessary, and when the plate is put back in it can be placed precisely for ideal down bearing – the tension the strings exert on the bridge. You also have the option to rebuild the plate to make it look like new. Really, removing the plate allows you to rework the inside of the piano giving new life to a piano with problems.
Another good reason to rebuild a piano is if the pinblock needs to be replaced. If the piano has been restrung a number of times it is important to replace the pinblock because larger pins are used every time you restring a piano and you reach a practical limit in pin size. Also, the pinblock can sometimes develop cracks which effects tuning stability.
If the soundboard and pinblock are in good shape, there is no benefit in rebuilding the piano. In fact, you can restring the piano, rework the bridges, and even rebuild the action, refinish the cabinet and re-bush the pedals all without technically rebuilding the piano. However, such a piano might be just as solid and potentially long-lasting as a rebuilt piano. It all depends upon what each instrument needs in order to play at a high level for years to come.
One thought on “What’s the Difference between Rebuilding and Reconditioning a Piano?”
I regret that I did not fly out to see and play the Mason & Hamlin CC that you had. I knew it had been manufactured when Aeolian Corp. was keeping the brand alive, along with Knabe, and a few other brands. You told me it was rebuilt, so I should have trusted your judgment about it.
So, I am still searching and have crossed paths with Bosendorfers(yuck), STeinway D here in the Atlanta area(not happy with it either, especially at seventy grand and a good bit of casework that needs to be done), and a small but dynamic Toyama? It’s not what I want, but are you familiar with that brand. Just out of the box, it sounds absolutely magnificent, brilliant and bell-like tones up and down. I have a friend who has wanted me to find a grand for his son. Don’t know whether to advise him on the Toyama or not. It put all the other grands on the showroom to shame. Also talked to the technician and he told me about Broadman, owned by the person who owns Bosendorfer. Really bragged about how fine and affordable they are. Any comments? And does the new owner of that Mason CC like it?
Thanks for the regular columns and tapes about performing and playing. I really enjoy seeing the videos and reading your comments.
Dayle Harding