Piano Rebuild Client AWOL

[Avery]

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At 12:03 PM 2/15/2006, you wrote:
>I've just run into a first for me. Couple years ago I contracted 
>with a local couple (the husband to be specific) to remanufacture 
>their old Baldwin M grand (5'3") - new soundboard, action, finish, 
>etc. The piano was originally purchased new by the woman's 
>grandmother and was handed down to her (read: sentimental value - no 
>other piano will do). They put the first 1/3 of the contract fee up 
>front. I completed building the new soundboard, bridges, ordered 
>parts, etc., etc. The next step was to move on to refinishing - that 
>is when the next installment of funds was due.
>
>I tried to contact them at that point (several months after I 
>started) and was unable to - all phone numbers disconnected, etc - I 
>tried internet searches with no luck. I now learn that the couple 
>got divorced, the woman moved to the Carolinas and the man seems to 
>have disappeared from the face of the earth.
>
>I stopped working on the piano a long time ago because it seemed I 
>did not have a client and roughly 1/3 of the work had been completed.
>
>This morning I get a call from the woman's mother inquiring about 
>the piano. I explained the status and she asked if I could just "put 
>it back together" and that she had no funds that she wished to 
>invest in the piano - but realizes that it may cost something to 
>make it whole again in some minimal fashion.
>
>So now I'm trying to figure out some sort of solution to this 
>situation. I seems very clear there will not be a "good" solution to 
>this situation (unless, of course, the husband is found and is 
>willing to complete the contract - which mom will try to do - but 
>I'm not going to hold my breath). I only wish to get paid for the 
>work I do to the piano. I do not wish to hold anyone to complete the 
>full scope of contracted rebuilding tasks - that would be best for 
>the piano, but I don't think anyone will want to pay for it. I'm 
>going to figure up a fee for making the piano whole for the least 
>cost. That will be such an awkward solution - new fabulous belly - 
>peeling finish - dull plate - so-so action with chipped/cracked 
>ivory keys. I feel so uneasy about such an end. And I know the lady 
>won't be happy with the piano either.
>
>Does anyone have any constructive thoughts for a least-bad outcome 
>to a situation like this? Maybe there is some avenue/direction that 
>I have not thought of. Thanks.
>
>Terry Farrell
>
>

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