In a message dated 1/2/99 1:26:35 PM Pacific Standard Time, klavier@annap.infi.net writes: << I just purchased a Steinway grand for restoration. The serial number indicates that it was built in 1900, and the case wood working and plate look correct for that date. The owner had no idea what model the piano was, but had been told by an "expert" that it was an L. Since the piano was almost certainly made in 1900, and since it measures 6' 3 1/2" (carefully measured by someone who knows how), and has a 20 note bass section, I am quite sure it is an A. Here is my question: What kind of A is it? It has no separate tenor bridge and a square tail, so it's definitely not an A I. It is also not a reproducer of any sort. It's too big for an A II, and too small for an A III, at least according to all of my information. Was the variance in size of A II models so great? Thanks in advance for any insight you might give. Frank Weston I rebuilt a Steinway A, 6' 4", circa 1915, around a year ago. It had 20 bass strings, 8 double wound, 12 single wound. Notes 21-25 in the next section also has single wound 2 string unisons. With what you described, chances are it is an A. Earlier A's I believe were 6'1", and some were 85 note keyboards. I am not an expert in Steinway numbers, so forgive me if I am wrong. Dave Peake, RPT Portland, OR
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