Restoration - Courtney Pianos

Grand Pianos vs. Upright Pianos: Choosing the Right Fit

Introduction

If you’re considering buying a piano, you’ve probably faced the classic question: should you go for a grand piano or an upright piano? It’s not just about size or price, the decision shapes your playing experience, the sound you produce, and even the way your space feels. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, a piano enthusiast, or someone exploring piano restoration services, understanding the nuances between these two piano types is essential.

In this guide, we’ll explore the core differences between grand pianos and upright pianos, from sound quality and craftsmanship to space requirements and maintenance. We’ll also look at their role in music history, practical buying tips, and restoration considerations. By the end, you’ll have a clear sense of which piano type fits your lifestyle, musical goals, and aesthetic preferences.

A piano is not just an instrument — it\’s a living, breathing work of art that responds to the touch and soul of its player.

— Steinway & Sons

The Anatomy of Grand and Upright Pianos

Grand pianos and upright pianos differ not just in appearance, but in their internal mechanics, sound projection, and playing feel. A grand piano has horizontal strings and a larger soundboard, allowing gravity to assist the action mechanism. This results in faster repetition and a richer dynamic range. Upright pianos, on the other hand, have vertical strings and a more compact design, making them ideal for smaller spaces.

Key structural differences between grand and upright pianos
Feature	Grand Piano	Upright Piano
String Orientation	Horizontal	Vertical
Soundboard Size	Large	Smaller
Action Speed	Faster	Moderate
Space Requirement	Significant	Compact
Price Range	£7,000-£200,000+	£2,000-£15,000

These differences have a direct impact on tonal quality and playing technique. For instance, the larger soundboard of a grand piano allows for greater resonance and sustain, while upright pianos often have a brighter, more direct tone that works well for certain styles and home settings.

Sound Quality and Musical Expression

When it comes to sound, grand pianos are often considered the gold standard. Their longer strings and larger soundboard produce a fuller, more nuanced tone with a wide dynamic range. Professional pianists often prefer grands for their responsiveness and ability to convey subtle musical expressions.

Upright pianos, while more limited in resonance, can still produce beautiful tones suitable for a variety of genres. Many modern uprights feature advanced action mechanisms and high-quality materials that rival smaller grands in sound quality.

The choice here often comes down to the type of music you play. Classical repertoire and jazz benefit from the expressive capabilities of a grand, while pop, rock, and casual home playing can shine on a well-crafted upright.

Space, Aesthetics, and Practical Considerations

One of the most immediate considerations when choosing between piano types is space. Grand pianos require a significant footprint, with even the smallest baby grands needing around 5 feet of length. Upright pianos fit comfortably against a wall, making them more practical for apartments or smaller rooms.

From an aesthetic perspective, a grand piano can be a striking centerpiece in a living room or performance space. Uprights offer a more understated look, which can blend seamlessly into home decor without dominating the space.

The right piano should inspire you every time you see and play it — it\’s as much a part of your environment as your music.

— Yamaha

Cost, Maintenance, and Longevity

The cost of a piano can vary dramatically based on brand, size, and craftsmanship. Entry-level uprights may start at just a couple thousand pounds, while high-end concert grands can exceed £200,000. Maintenance is also a key factor — grands often require more frequent tuning and care due to their complexity and exposure of parts.

In terms of longevity, both piano types can last decades with proper maintenance. Restoration services can breathe new life into vintage instruments, preserving their tonal character while updating their mechanics.

Lifespan and maintenance comparison
Piano Type	Average Lifespan	Maintenance Frequency
Grand	50+ years	2-4 tunings/year
Upright	40+ years	1-3 tunings/year

As you can see, both can be long-term investments, but the upkeep requirements vary.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Grand pianos have been the hallmark of concert halls and prestigious music institutions for centuries, gracing the works of composers like Chopin, Liszt, and Rachmaninoff. Upright pianos, meanwhile, democratized piano playing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, making the instrument accessible to middle-class families.

These cultural associations can influence your decision. Owning a grand piano may feel like joining a legacy of musical artistry, while an upright connects you to a tradition of home music-making and community gatherings.

Restoration and Resale Value

For those seeking piano restoration services, both grand and upright pianos present unique opportunities. Restoring a vintage grand can yield a showpiece with incredible sound and high resale potential. Uprights, while often less valuable in resale, can hold immense sentimental value and be restored for personal enjoyment.

Restoration involves replacing worn action parts, refinishing the cabinet, and sometimes rebuilding the soundboard. The investment can be substantial, but so can the rewards, both in playability and aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

Choosing between a grand piano and an upright piano ultimately comes down to your space, budget, musical goals, and personal taste. Grands offer unmatched tonal richness and prestige, while uprights provide practicality and charm for everyday playing.

If you have the space and resources, a grand piano can be a lifelong companion and a centerpiece in your home. If you’re seeking a more compact, budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, a high-end upright can deliver exceptional performance.

Whichever you choose, remember that a piano is more than an instrument — it’s a partner in your musical journey. Take the time to play different models, consult experts, and consider restoration options for older instruments that capture your heart.

Your perfect piano is out there, ready to inspire every note you play.

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Bechstein Piano Models

The Rich Legacy and Diverse Models of Bechstein Pianos

Bechstein pianos have long been revered in the world of music for their exceptional craftsmanship, rich history, and unparalleled sound quality. Originating from Berlin, Germany, these pianos have captivated the hearts of musicians and collectors alike. This article examines the history, models, and unique features of Bechstein pianos, and looks at why Courtney Pianos is the ideal choice for maintaining and restoring these magnificent instruments.

Carl Bechstein: The Visionary Behind Bechstein Pianos

Carl Bechstein founded the Bechstein piano company in 1853 in Berlin, Germany. His vision was to create pianos that would meet the rigorous demands of the era’s leading concert pianists. Bechstein’s commitment to quality and innovation quickly earned the company a stellar reputation. By the late 19th century, Bechstein piano models were favoured by renowned composers and musicians, solidifying their place as a premier piano brand.

Exploring the Bechstein Piano Models

Bechstein offers a variety of piano models, each tailored to meet different musical needs and preferences. The primary series includes the Concert, Academy, and Classic lines, each with distinct characteristics and features.

Concert Series

The Bechstein Concert series is the epitome of German craftsmanship. These pianos are designed for professional concert performances, offering unparalleled sound projection and tonal clarity. Models like the C. Bechstein D 282 grand piano are renowned for their powerful bass, sparkling treble, and rich, balanced sound.

Academy Series

The Academy series bridges the gap between professional and aspiring pianists. These pianos provide exceptional quality at a more accessible price point. The A 192 model, for instance, is celebrated for its responsive touch and warm, resonant tone, making it a favourite among advanced students and teachers.

Classic Series

The Classic series is designed for home use and smaller venues. These pianos combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to deliver a high-quality instrument that fits various settings. The C. Bechstein Classic 118 upright piano is a standout, known for its elegant design and impressive sound quality.

Unique Features and Characteristics

Bechstein pianos are distinguished by their meticulous craftsmanship and the high-quality materials used in their construction. The soundboards are made from carefully selected spruce, ensuring optimal resonance. The bridges and ribs are crafted from solid wood, contributing to the piano’s durability and sound quality.

Craftsmanship and Attention to Detail

Every Bechstein piano is a testament to the brand’s dedication to excellence. Skilled artisans devote hundreds of hours to constructing each instrument, ensuring precision and attention to detail. This commitment to craftsmanship results in pianos that not only sound exquisite but also stand the test of time.

Reputation Among Musicians

Bechstein pianos are highly esteemed by musicians and pianists worldwide. Their exceptional sound quality and reliability make them a top choice for concert halls and recording studios. Artists such as Claude Debussy and Franz Liszt have praised Bechstein pianos for their expressive range and dynamic capabilities.

Pricing and Comparisons

Bechstein pianos are considered premium instruments, with prices reflecting their superior quality. While they may be more expensive than other brands, the investment is justified by their longevity and exceptional performance. Compared to other high-end brands like Steinway & Sons, Bechstein offers a unique tonal character and a distinct German engineering heritage.

Tips for Purchasing a Second hand Bechstein Piano

When purchasing a previously owned Bechstein piano, it’s essential to research and try out different models to find the one that best suits your needs. Visiting a reputable dealer like Courtney Pianos in Oxford can provide valuable insights and expert guidance. Ensure you play the piano before purchasing to experience its touch and sound firsthand.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining a Bechstein piano requires regular tuning and servicing to preserve its sound quality and performance. Environmental factors such as humidity and temperature can affect the piano, so it’s crucial to keep it in a stable environment. Courtney Pianos offers comprehensive restoration services, ensuring your Bechstein remains in pristine condition.

Common Issues and Expert Solutions

Pianos can encounter issues over time, such as worn hammers, sticky keys, and soundboard cracks. These problems can significantly impact the instrument’s playability and sound. Courtney Pianos’ team of skilled technicians is well-versed in addressing these issues, using their expertise to restore your Bechstein to its former glory.

The Prestige of Owning a Bechstein

Owning a Bechstein piano is a mark of distinction for any musician or collector. These instruments are not only a testament to superior craftsmanship but also a piece of musical history. Their rich, expressive sound and elegant design make Bechstein pianos a top choice for those seeking the best in quality and performance.

For those looking to restore, maintain, value or buy a used Bechstein piano, Courtney Pianos of Oxford offers unparalleled expertise and service.

Contact us about Bechstein restoration or experience the timeless beauty and exceptional sound of Bechstein pianos, and let our skilled technicians ensure your instrument remains in perfect condition.

Courtney Pianos, The Piano Restoration Experts

Courtney Pianos owes its reputation as Piano restoration experts to our dedicated team of professionals. Here we ask them a few questions about their passion for restoration.

Courtney Pianos’ founder is David Hogben, who started in the industry in 1977, initially offering a tuning service and minor repairs throughout Oxford before establishing the first workshop and beginning to sell second-hand pianos.

David, why did you decide to set up Courtney Pianos?

I’ve always had a passion for the technical side of piano work; the fine-tuning and precise regulation; but I realised early on in my career that there was massive potential for taking older pianos, restoring them to their former glory and reselling to people who understand the inherent beauty of older instruments.

What prompted you to take on other people?

Whilst I am an expert in tuning pianos, I realised that there’s a lot more to piano restoration than making sure the instrument is tuned. I built a team of piano restoration experts around me to ensure we can cover all aspects of the restoration process.

What motivates you to keep going after 43 years in the business?

That’s an easy question to answer! I still get the same thrill as I did in the very beginning, watching a piano go from a poor state of repair to a polished and perfectly tuned instrument which will go on to give its owners years of service.

Another essential part of the Courtney team is Ade, a piano technician with over 30 years experience.

Ade, what’s your favourite part of your role?

As David says, it’s seeing how a sorry old piano can be made to function beautifully. The look on an owner’s face when we show them their piano after restoration is amazing and gives us all a real buzz.

What’s your speciality in the restoration process?

My main responsibilities include the action, keyboard and damper restoration of all the moving parts of the piano. Having worked on hundreds of instruments over the years I think I have a pretty good understanding of the intricacies of restoration – I’d even call myself an expert!

Could you ever imagine yourself doing something else for a living?

No! Absolutely not, when you have a job you love why would you look for something else?

Rob, Courtney’s in-house Polisher.

Rob, you’ve been with Courtney for 5 years and you learned your trade under the guidance of Barry, who had 40 years of experience with another restoration company, is that the case?

Yes indeed, sadly that company closed after he had worked there for 40 odd years, Barry couldn’t see himself doing anything else and didn’t want to retire. I consider myself really lucky to have been taught by such a master craftsman when I joined Courtney Pianos.

For those who don’t know, what is involved in working as a polisher?

We use traditional polishing methods to achieve varying finishes depending on what our customers need and want.

The most popular finish is a satin wax finish, which is similar to the original style of many of the instruments we work on.

You’ve been doing the job for some time now, is it safe to say you love it?

Absolutely! What I like most is sympathetically restoring very old pianos, which are often in a poor condition, back to their former glory.

I use traditional methods of hand polishing with more up to date polishes to achieve finishes that preserve the integrity and original style of the instrument.

It is the most satisfying job in the world, at least to me! The others have already said this, but when an owner sees how beautiful their piano looks when I’ve completed the polishing process I get a real sense of satisfaction.

Simon, Courtney’s in-house Stringing & Soundboard Expert.

Simon is a piano technician and tuner who has a wealth of experience in all aspects of piano restoration. Simon’s expertise is the restoration of the soundboard and consequent restringing of the majority of pianos that come into the Courtney Pianos workshop.

Simon, what do you see as the main challenge of your job?

Really the challenge is the variety of pianos that I work on and getting to know the nuances of all the different models, and ensuring that we can get the desired sound possible from each different piano.

Call The Piano Restoration Experts on 01865 790400 Today!

Our experienced team of Piano restorers are ready to take your call. Or if you prefer to email. Just contact us by clicking this link.

Bechstein Piano Restoration

Bechstein Restoration / Bechstein Piano Restoration Service

Carl Bechstein established his business in 1853 in Berlin, Germany. He set out to manufacture pianos that could cope with the demands of the virtuoso concert pianists of the time – Franz Liszt is one such musician. By the 1870s, after the backing and endorsement of various musicians, Bechstein pianos had become staples in concert halls and grand houses throughout Europe.

Bechstein pianos are still considered among the best available in both grand and upright forms. With a new Bechstein concert grand costing well in excess of £30k it is no wonder that older examples are deemed worthy of repair and restoration.

The manufacturer itself offers a restoration service but that entails shipping your precious piano to their factory in Hrádec Králové, Czech Republic.

Would you prefer to entrust the restoration to a company based in the UK?

Here at Courtney Pianos, we have a combined expertise of over 140 years in the piano restoration field, we know our jobs and pride ourselves on our knowledge and skills. We use only the highest quality parts and materials and the vast majority of the work is carried out in our own piano workshop in Oxford.

Courtney Pianos are recognised as one of the foremost Bechstein experts in the UK, your prized Bechstein will be in very safe hands indeed.

When you entrust your Bechstein to us for restoration we will carefully assess the instrument and provide you with a price estimate for a full repair and restoration. As a rough guide, this will be anywhere between £6000 and £12000 depending on the type and size of the instrument.

In a typical piano restoration, we will do all of the following:

Restore the piano soundboard
Restring and re-pin the piano frame
Restore/rebuild the action/keyboard/damper assembly
Strip down and hand repolish the cabinet to reveal the pianos natural woodgrain
Raise to pitch and stretch strings, fine-tune to A-440
Extensively regulate the touch and damping
Overhaul the pianos pedal assembly

Occasionally when we begin the strip back a piano we come across hidden areas that may require additional work which will increase the cost – in such instances we will always speak directly to the owner before continuing.

As we take great care with all our restoration projects you can expect to be without your piano for a minimum of four months. We are pleased to be able to offer a rental service should you require an instrument during the time we have your piano in our care. Please discuss this with us at the time of scheduling the restoration in order to minimise your time without a piano.

Our aim at Courtney Pianos is to ensure that a piano is restored, as far as is possible, to the way it would have been when originally crafted. Along the way, we may use modern parts which can often enhance the quality and durability of the piano. Your restored upright or grand piano will, therefore, sound and play better than ever whilst looking as it would have done when it first left the factory floor.
Are you ready to discuss the restoration of your Bechstein piano?

Get in touch and request a callback.

The Show Must Go On – Taking Care of Concert Pianos

We are often asked if we provide a special service for concert/theatre pianos…

The answer is no, because we provide the same high level of service for every piano restoration we undertake.

The only difference in pricing may occur when it comes to transportation, and that is due purely to the size of concert grand pianos which average 9ft (2.75 metres) in length.

What sorts of concert pianos do we normally restore?

To the average person, Steinway may be the most recognisable make of concert grand pianos, but the professional will be aware of many others and we are able to restore and repair all of them – including Bechstein, Blüthner, Richard Lipp and Bosendorfer.

What are the common problems faced with restoring concert pianos?

Concert pianos are often used on a daily basis, and by many different musicians, meaning that they invariably experience more wear and tear than most pianos.

Constant usage means that hammers have to be regularly replaced and the instrument as a whole will require more regular maintenance than the average piano. Over time this will inevitably mean that the performance may decline – this is where we can step in to bring the piano back to its former glory.

What is the Average Turnaround for Concert Piano Restorations?

We apply the same care and attention to all our restoration efforts, whatever the type or make of piano concerned.

Therefore, we apply the same timescale to the restoration of a concert grand piano as to any other grand – 5 months.

We always keep the owner informed as to the progress of the restoration and also to any difference in anticipated timescales or price caused by any requirement for additional work.

What are the Benefits of using Courtney Pianos for Restoring Concert Grands?

We have a passion for pianos and are recognised as one of the foremost Bechstein experts in the UK.

We use only the highest quality parts and materials and the vast majority of the work is carried out in our own workshop in Oxford.

With a combined expertise of over 140 years in the piano restoration field, we know our jobs and pride ourselves on our knowledge and skills.

Over the years we’ve restored a number of art cased and decorative cased instruments a few have been for notable people, but for the sake of their privacy and data protection, we don’t think we should name anyone…we’ll leave it at ‘celebs, and prominent people’!

Testimonials
If you’d like proof that we really are as good as we say we are…you can read our testimonials here: –

https://www.courtneypianos.co.uk/piano-restoration-testimonials/

Does your Concert Grand Need Attention?

We realise the importance of having a beautiful concert grand taking centre stage in theatres and concert halls. We also understand that being without a piano is not an option for venues.

This is why we offer the loan of a similar type instrument whilst ever we are undertaking restoration work.

To find out how we could help restore your concert grand to its former glory, please click here and complete our short contact form.

What is Piano Restoration and What Does it Entail?

What is Piano Restoration and What Does it Entail?
When you hear the words ‘piano restoration’ what do you imagine?

Perhaps a repair, fixing damaged areas and re-tuning the instrument?

Well, you’d be correct – at least partially…

When we say ‘piano restoration’ we mean stripping the instrument right back and lovingly repairing, restoring, restringing and repinning the frame as well as repolishing the cabinet so the beautiful natural wood grain is highlighted once more.

We recognise and want to celebrate the craftsmanship of the instrument’s original makers and aim to return an instrument to as close to its original style and character as possible.

In short, when a piano leaves us it will be restored to its original glory, ready for many more years of loving use.

How Much Does Piano Restoration Cost?

Every piano is unique and we treat it as such. Our prices will, therefore, depend on the amount of work a piano requires to restore it to its former glory.

The following prices are an indication of the cost of a complete restoration project:-

Standard Upright £5,000
Large Upright £6,000
Baby Grand £6.500
Boudoir Grand £8,000
Concert Grand £10,000 to £12,000

These prices are exclusive of VAT and transportation costs

What Sorts of Pianos Can We Restore?

We work primarily on Bechstein, Steinway, Blüthner, Richard Lipp and Bosendorfer pianos but we can look at other makes if required.

If we feel that the cost of a full restoration of a lower value instrument is not cost-effective we will always tell the owner.

How Long Does a Piano Restoration Take?

Every single piano is unique and therefore so is every restoration project, however, you should allow for around 4 months for an upright, and 5 months for a grand pianos.

Do bear in mind though that occasionally we will come across areas needing work that were not immediately apparent – e.g.. discovering soundboard splits hidden behind the iron frame and that this could add to both the timescale and cost. Rest assured that in such instances we will always speak to the owner before continuing.

Why Should You Choose Courtney Pianos to Carry Out Restoration Work?

First and foremost…because we care about pianos! In fact, we have a passion for pianos and are recognised as one of the foremost Bechstein experts in the UK.

A family firm established over 40 years ago, our aim is always to ensure that a piano is restored, as far as is possible, to the way it would have been when originally crafted.

We use only the highest quality parts and materials and the vast majority of the work is carried out in our own piano workshop in Oxford.

With a combined expertise of over 140 years in the piano restoration field, we know our jobs and pride ourselves on our knowledge and skills.

Each of our team has a particular speciality – from the precise regulation and fine-tuning of each piano, through to the French Polishing of each and every cabinet, our experts work together to complete the very best restorations.

So, now you know a little more about the process, all that remains is to get in touch.