Can’t give them away: Vintage upright pianos are meeting a sorry end
The Decline of Vintage Upright Pianos: A Tale of Unwanted Instruments
As you scroll through online for-sale sites like Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace, it’s hard to miss the numerous listings for old upright pianos. Whether they are being offered for free or at a very low price, these wooden instruments often struggle to find new homes. The ads linger for weeks, as these pianos are heavy to move and frequently out of tune.
Mike Klomp, a seasoned piano tuner and repairman on Prince Edward Island, has witnessed the decline of interest in these vintage uprights over his 35-year career. He used to refurbish and sell them but has since stopped due to the lack of demand. “I couldn’t even resell it because the amount I would have to invest in repairs would outweigh any potential profit. It’s a disappointing reality,” he shared.
Space constraints also play a significant role in the dwindling interest in these pianos. Janine Gosbee of Cornwall, P.E.I., received an old upright piano a few years ago for her daughter’s piano lessons. However, her daughter has since shifted her focus to a school band program, leaving the piano unused. Despite listing it for free, Gosbee has received minimal interest, with potential buyers primarily inquiring about the piano’s dimensions to assess if it fits in their homes.
The decline in the popularity of upright pianos can be attributed to changing trends in music education and the rise of electronic keyboards that offer portability and versatility. In the past, these pianos were a common fixture in households, serving as a social hub for families. However, as technology advanced and preferences shifted, many of these vintage pianos have become obsolete.
When faced with the challenge of finding new homes for old upright pianos, individuals often resort to two options: listing them online or disposing of them in landfills. While some donate them to churches or schools, the surplus of pianos in such establishments often goes unused. Mike Klomp emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough research before acquiring a vintage piano to assess its condition and determine if it’s worth the investment in repairs.
Despite the challenges, some individuals like Pat MacKinnon of Dunstaffnage hold sentimental value for their family’s old piano. MacKinnon, who posted her piano online for free due to space constraints, hopes to find a new owner who will cherish and play the instrument as much as her family did. While the era of old upright pianos may be fading, there is still a glimmer of hope that these instruments will find appreciative homes.
As the demand for vintage upright pianos wanes, Klomp reflects on the inevitability of their eventual disappearance. The musical value embedded in these pianos is undeniable, and their loss is a poignant reminder of changing times. Despite the challenges, there remains a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for these once-beloved instruments, evoking memories of a bygone era.
In a world where trends come and go, the tale of unwanted vintage upright pianos serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of cultural artifacts. While their presence may be diminished in today’s musical landscape, their legacy endures in the hearts of those who appreciate their timeless beauty and rich history.
