Susan, At 09:34 AM 1/10/98 -0800, you wrote: >Dear list, > >Now that a little actual fun has passed (I said _passed_) beneath the >bridge, does anyone have any real ideas about the value of this gorgeous >remnant of a more generous age? Or will Jerry have to wait for Newton to get >some real help? That might make him late on his estimate. Unfortunately for the owner, if the beasty is in the shape described by Jerry, it's ready to be cut up for firewood - unless, of course, the owner is realistic about the costs involved in real restoration. Chickerings of this period were/are notoriously inconsistent as to virtually every aspect of their design - except for being overstrung. The multiple section pinblocks fitted with machine screws being only the tip of the proverbial iceberg in terms of complexity. Years ago, I spent some time taking care of the period instruments at the state historical monument in Los Angeles (El Pueblo de Los Angles). Of the several dozen pianos there (at that time) roughly 18 (if memory still serves) were Chickerings. Each one (potentially, anyway), a fine period piece. Each one, also, a hobbiest's delight - custom everything. I learned various ways to not properly machine brass during that period. Oh, yes, also, how to do it correctly... Still, if one has/takes the time, the musical rewards were well worthwhile. There are a few folks in the Bay Area who would be qualified/competent to do this work, and, certainly others who also specialize in restoration. Unless one is willing to lose money on a learning project (clearly it's own reward, and very worthwhile, in some instances), it is much better to take a pass, and send the thing on before it eats one alive. "Passing" on... Horace.. Horace Greeley Systems Analyst/Engineer Controller's Office Stanford University email: hgreeley@leland.stanford.edu voice mail: 650.725.9062 fax: 650.725.8014
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