Built in 1905, this Chickering & Sons grand piano represents more than a century of American piano-making history. After generations of use, many of its original internal components had reached the end of their functional life, while the cabinet and finish required a complete restoration.
Uriel’s Piano was entrusted with bringing this historic instrument back to life—not simply cosmetically, but as a complete restoration designed to preserve the piano for generations to come.
The cabinet is being completely disassembled, stripped and restored in our Premium Black Finish, creating a rich, elegant appearance with the smooth, hand-polished character appropriate for a fine grand piano. The original brass hardware will be carefully polished and finished in satin to complement the restored cabinet, and a new period-appropriate Chickering decal will complete the exterior presentation.
A Complete Rebuild
The restoration goes far beyond the cabinet.
After more than 120 years, many of the piano’s mechanical components require replacement or extensive restoration. Because several components in this Chickering are oversized or non-standard—and original Chickering replacement parts are no longer manufactured—the rebuild requires careful selection and fitting of modern, premium-quality components.
The restoration includes new whippens, shanks and hammers, key bushings, new keytops, restored sharps, refinished damper heads, new damper felts, a complete new set of strings, soundboard and bridge restoration, pinblock replacement, complete action rebuilding, and extensive regulation and adjustment throughout the instrument.
The goal is not to erase the piano’s history. It is to preserve the instrument while restoring the beauty, responsiveness and musical performance that made these American grands so highly regarded.
From Heirloom to the Next Generation
This is exactly the kind of project that defines Uriel’s Piano.
A piano that has survived for more than a century deserves more than a surface makeover. Every stage of this restoration—from the cabinet and brass hardware to the action, belly work and final regulation—is being approached as part of one complete instrument.
When finished, this 1905 Chickering & Sons Grand Piano will retain its historic identity while beginning a new chapter as a fully restored musical instrument, ready to be played and enjoyed for generations to come.