Museum-Grade Restorations
Expert Tuning & Voicing
Self‑Play Upgrade
Complete Acoustic Restoration
At 1066 Pianos, we remove the strings and pins and iron frame, stripping the piano right down to its very core. Once we have established the piano structure is sound we work on the vital tone-producing components to restore tonal clarity, sonority and projection. This includes work on the soundboard, bridges, wrest plank, and frame, ensuring long-term tuning stability and rich tonal depth. Every note is checked accurately for down-bearing prior to being re-pinned and restrung, every string is measured and the whole stringing scale re-calculated to achieve the best possible fulness of sound, every detail is attended to in order to optimise resonance and power, while careful attention is paid to preserve the instrument's unique tonal character. This process enhances the piano's acoustic performance, ensuring that its original musical personality is maintained and elevated, thereby bringing vibrancy and life back to the instrument.
Mechanical Rebuild
Let us focus on restoring every element of the piano's action and keyboard for consistent, responsive performance. We often completely replace worn components, or where possible we restore the original component to the same standard. The complete re-regulation the action and keyboard from first principles brings a consistency and liveliness of response probably never experienced before. The key-coverings are either restored if in good condition or recovered with special ivory alternatives - we do not use modern moulded plastic key-tops which are totally out of character with vintage instruments. Touch-weighting and dynamic adjustments ensure a balanced, expressive feel across the entire keyboard. Voicing for both light and heavy playing, and to suit the acoustic surroundings is also critical in achieving the best final result. This careful attention to every detail allows the piano to deliver precise responsiveness, reliability, and an enjoyable playing experience that honours both the craftsmanship and musical intent of the original instrument, and is guaranteed to keep the most demanding pianist happy. free inspection country-wide
Cabinet Restoration And Refinishing
Where requested the piano's exterior receives the same meticulous attention. Whilst we do accept many of our clients are primarily musicians and prefer to save money in this area, many others also enjoy the wonderful aura that a beautiful vintage piano as restored adds to a home aesthetically. With vintage it is critical not to over restore and lose the character and personality of the piano – but we can also helpfully combine both modern techniques with traditional French polishing to really positively impact the cabinet's appearance
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Prior to polishing, the high-level preparation is key and all veneers and decorative details are carefully repaired or improved and any damage consolidated and re-worked. The result is always very good indeed and receives the highest acclaim from our happy clients every time. At 1066 Pianos, this work complements internal restoration, ensuring the instrument looks as exceptional as it sounds. Every surface, fitting, and detail is carefully considered to achieve visual harmony with acoustic and mechanical enhancements, resulting in a piano that commands presence in any space.
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Alternatively, explore our smaller works package for a focused, cost-effective alternative to full acoustic restoration.
Suitable Instruments, Pricing, And Timelines
The 1066 Rebuild is suitable for instruments of almost any condition, from heavily worn to structurally compromised pianos. Pricing ranges from £10,000 to £50,000, depending on size, age, and specific requirements, with a typical duration of 4–8 months. Let us transform your piano into a fully revitalised instrument with improved tone, touch, and appearance. This comprehensive approach ensures longevity, functionality, and musical enjoyment while preserving the instrument's history, character, and sentimental value. Explore our Why Restore page to understand the long-term value of investing in thoughtful restoration.
We didn’t quite get into Foxdale over Christmas, however we did get to spend Christmas Day there, and as we all gathered around the piano, the sound it made and the joy it brought, will never be forgotten. I wanted to thank you for all the assistance and kindness you have shown us along the way. We finally get to move into Foxdale this month, but before we do I wanted to share a short video of the piano being enjoyed by my son.
- Family Vintage Grand Piano Rebuild - Chester
Transform your piano completely
Call now to discuss your piano rebuild and bring your instrument back to its full potential.