List, I had the opportunity (privilege/misfortune) to tune a Thurmer over-damper piano yesterday. Aside from having to deal with the damper situation, it was a beautiful piano. It looked as though much of it had been redone including finish, pin-block, strings and plate. The bridges also were in good condition. The cabinet was mahogany with burled walnut insets in the music desk, fall board, and front panel. There were also candle holders on the sides of the music desk. The piano was bought in Germany while the owners were stationed there in the service. When they moved, they said the movers strapped the piano to one man's back and carried down two flights of steps and onto the truck. ( They also mentioned something about how much beer they gave them.) I looked in Pierce and it listed a Ferdinand Thurmer from Meissen, Saxony (Germany) but it also listed Thurmer as a name used by the Beale Piano Mfg. Co. of Australia. I am assuming this one was made by the German manufacturer. If anyone cares to comment on the origin and value of this piano I will share it with the customer. I told her most technicians don't have too many flattering things to say about birdcage pianos. (How's that for being diplomatic?) But it really was in superb condition and sounded quite nice. By the way, I live in a rural area of South Dakota and found this piano about 15 miles from the Mason & Hamlin screw stringer I tuned two months ago. John Voigt PTG Associate
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