Steinway rebuilder?

[macallan-18]

I have a 1919 Steinway "O" I am finally ready to have professionally rebuilt and was wondering if anyone can recommend a particular rebuilder/refinisher -- West Coast preferrably, but would consider shipping back east if necessary.  Thanks in advance for any advice!

[Bosendorfer_214]

I know of a good rebuilder in Cave Creek, Arizona (near Phoenix).  They specialize in old Steinways and Mason & Hamlins.  They do soundboard replacements if absolutely necessary.  I wouldn't recoment a new board unless the old one is absolutely shot.  They can also repair the original boards with shims... etc...  They do everything.  Their prices are reasonable also.  They did a rebulid job for my teacher a while back, he is very happy with it.  If you give me your e-mail address I will send you the shop's contact info.  There are also has a couple O's at the shop that he will sell rebuilt.  One is NY and the other is Hamburg.

Nic

[tosca1]

Dear macallan-18,
Is your Steinway an American built one or was it made in Hamburg? In my book on the New York Steinway and Sons there is reference to the model A 6', the model M 5'6" and the model S 5'1" inaugurated in 1936 but no mention of the model O which is possibly German made.
For an heirloom piano of such quality I would suggest that you had it rebuilt at Steinway and Sons in New York.  If you can be absolutely sure of a more local restorer then you could risk it but I would be very wary of having such a fine instrument reconditioned by someone in whom you did not have absolute trust and confidence in terms of professionalism and craftmanship.

It is like choosing a surgeon for a critical operation.

Rebuilding a piano is a major financial investment and to safeguard that commitment I would  entrust my piano only to the best restorer there is.

Best wishes for your project.
Robert.

[macallan-18]

It is a Hamburg "O", 5 feet 10 & 1/2 inches.  Your advice is much appreciated.  Thanks!

[tosca1]

Thank you macallan-18 for that information.  I am sure you will never regret it if you have a first class restoration.  It will be a first class instrument for you for life.
Regards,
Robert.