A Brief History

1974

The business, (which was to become Courtney Pianos), was created by its founder, David Hogben, & started by offering a tuning service and minor repairs.

1977

Courtney Pianos became registered, moved to its first workshop, started selling second-hand pianos.

1980

C.P. moved to a larger workshop about 5 miles South-West of Oxford. The quality of its restored pianos vastly improved, and C.P. offered a restoration service.

1989

The firm was approached by messrs. Haken & Bell Ltd, a large music shop, with a view to merging the businesses in order to create a comprehensive piano-based concern.

1990

Just 2 weeks before signing the contracts, Haken & Bell went into receivership. Had the merger taken place, this could have been the end of C.P. too. A very lucky escape indeed !

1991

C.P. opened its shop/workshop in Botley Road, Oxford, and increased its range of services to include selling new as well as traditional restored pianos. Rental of pianos was also introduced, and sales of restored grands were actively promoted.

Today

The business continues to flourish. We remain dedicated to our high standards of workmanship, and careful monitoring of instruments offered for sale will hopefully ensure many future years of service to the world of pianos.