[LIZZY]

Hi,
I have a Kirkman piano, I was told about 25 years ago that it was made in the 1800's and is an upright baby grand piano does anyone know if this is right - is there such a thing????
The piano has - Godfrey's of Southsea inside - this was obviously the dealer.
One of the front panels has bowed outwards - due to central heating... and a small piece of trim is missing from this panel. Does anyone know whether it is of any value? and if it is worth having it restored? looking forward to your replies
Lizzy

[Gill the Piano]

You'd need to know the serial number - usually on the top left or right hand corner of the frame inside - to ascertain the exact age of the piano. It's unlikely that the piano is of any significant value, but it depends what you have the piano for. If you have it to play and it's a beginner's piano, by which I mean a straight strung overdamped piano, you could get to grade 3 or thereabouts. If you want to sell it to create a Swiss bank account and finance a highrolling lifestyle, then I'm afraid you might be a few quid short...
Around the Home Counties, a straight strung overdamper comands about &250 if it's structurally sound. Your best bet would be to ask a tuner to come and have a look.