Stillneedhelp 1883 Chickering

[Lance Lafargue]

Thanks Del,
The piano is on it's side in my shop.  I cannot answer many of your
questions at this time.  This customer did not want to spend the $ on a new
soundboard, nor have I ever replaced one.  It will be in a small private
club in Natchez when I'm done.  The piano has been in Louisiana for two
years with the owner, so I am supposing with the piano very near pitch,
that the crown will hold.  What do you think?  The bass strings were in
good shape.  Tone/sustain was pretty good. (plenty of fundamental) At least
it was comparable to many 20th century pianos I have restored with good
success.  The entire piano (except the ribs) is in remarkable shape for
it's age.  Beyond this information, since it is surrounded by a Steinway
"O" and "K", I may have to hold this correspondence with you till I can get
to it again.  As to why the ribs were removed, I can only guess.  I assume
it was because of the bridge repair, but it could have been because of a
buzz...Because of the quality of repairs to the bridge and other parts, I
suspect the removal of the ribs was not an educated/calculated decision.  I
will hold these e-mails, and when I can get to the piano, I will reevaluate
and write again.  Thanks so much for the information.  
Lance Lafargue, RPT
New Orleans Chapter
Covington, LA.
lafargue@iamerica.net