Estimates and Appraisals continued...

   If you need to have your instrument appraised for insurance or other purposes, I can provide you with a letter as to the value of your instrument. There are many deciding factors in evaluating a piano's worth. One of the first things to do is to ascertain its age. Knowing the name and the serial number (usually found inside stamped on the iron plate near the tuning pins), one can look to a reference such as Pierce's Piano Atlas and find the year the piano was built. However, age is not the most important factor in an appraisal. The reputation of the maker, the overall condition of the piano, the integrity of its structural parts, most notably soundboard, pinblock and bridges, as well as the appearance of the case all figure into the assessment of a piano's worth. A qualified piano technician (rather than a furniture or antiques appraiser) making a thorough, on-site inspection of the piano will be best able to make such an evaluation.

   If you find yourself in need of another instrument, be sure to consider all options, both new and used. Fine used instruments become available for sale for a variety of reasons. Your technician can help you select a piano in good playing condition and give you an idea of what type of maintenance you can expect in the future. Like selecting a used car, it's important to seek the help of an expert when making your purchase to avoid costly repairs in the future. Your technician also can provide you with guidance regarding the selection of a new instrument best suited to your own personal taste and domestic requirements.