Welcome to this website that gives information about the Early Piano and offers authentic materials to makers and restorers of Early Pianos and other Early Keyboard Instruments.
Last Revision: 17 May 2012
Two early keyboard instruments are offered for sale: A George Astor square paino of c1792 that is in substancially original condition and a rare and important spinet by Thomas Hitchcock c1724. This instrument is also substancially original and has recently been brought into performance playing condition by Malcolm Rose. More information is given on the Instruments For Sale page.
Square Piano weekend at Finckcocks, May 12th and 13th
The second “Square Piano weekend” at Finchcocks Musical Museum, Goudhurst, Kent was enjoyed by all attendees who came from Holland, Germany and the United States as well as the UK. It was organised by Friends of Square Pianos and by kind invitation of Katrina and Richard Burnett. The event was arranged and sponsored by Alastair Laurence of John Broadwood & Sons.
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The Early Piano
There are a number of articles about the early piano that have been taken from independent research together with a selection of bibliography.
Gallery Some interesting examples of early pianos from private collections are shown in the Gallery together with comment about these instruments and their makers.
A square piano made about 1785. The nameboard inscription gives the name of Adam Martin but this instrument is attributed to Christopher Ganer, Broad Street, Soho.
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Early Keyboard Materials
Early Keyboard Cloth This is an authentic copy of the early 19th century cloth found in English instruments. It is being purchased by professional and amateur makers and restorers for a range of instruments including English grand, square pianos, fortepianos, harpsichords and clavichords.
Square Piano fretwork Silk The silk found in English square pianos for the nameboard and internal fretwork apertures is now available. It is a copy of the original silk and has been made in an early 19th century English silk mill.
Hammer covering and leather An initiative to replicate the types and qualities of leather found in early pianos in liaison with a leather specialist in the UK has been undertaken. More information about hammer covering and the production of leather is given.
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Occasionally there are Instruments For Sale and early pianos may also be bought for private collection. Of particular interest is the purchase of early English grand and square pianos made before 1820.
The commission for the restoration or conservation of early pianos is not undertaken but there are excellent restorers who will undertake this work for private and commercial clients. The links to their websites are given on the Links page.
Graham Walker, Dorset, UK
