1911 Chickering Grand — Restoration
Built in 1911 by Chickering & Sons of Boston - one of America’s most renowned piano makers - this baby grand piano arrived at our dedicated workshop with two clear needs: a complete restring with new tuning pins and strings, and repair of a crack in the high treble bridge that was affecting the instrument’s playability. Over the course of six weeks, both were addressed with care and precision, returning this century-old instrument to its full voice.
The piano arrives at our workshop. The work ahead is significant, but so is the instrument.
A close-up of the cracked high treble bridge, with the damage running directly through the bridge pins. These pins are critical in guiding the strings along their precise path from the hitch pin to the tuning pin. When the bridge cracks in this way, the strings can no longer be held at the correct angle, compromising both tone and playability.
The bridge crack repair underway. Clamps hold the wood firmly in place as the repair sets, restoring the structural integrity of this critical component.
With the plate suspended above and the interior fully exposed, the completed bridge repair is visible alongside the warm spruce soundboard and the elegant Chickering & Sons Boston inscription. The piano is now ready to receive its new strings.
New strings installed throughout the treble section, including through the area of the repaired bridge - a meaningful milestone in the restoration. Each string installed to precise specifications, restoring tension, tone, and consistency across the instrument.
The 1911 Chickering grand, restored. New strings, repaired bridge, and a voice returned to its full potential. With proper care, decades more of music lie ahead.
If your piano has a story worth continuing, I’d love to help write the next chapter. Get in touch to discuss what’s possible.