Tinkling the ivories at Addisons’ Spring Sale

Hand-built in 1937 by the world-famous piano makers, Steinway and Sons, the model S baby grand offered for sale by Addisons, one of the North’s leading auction houses, is estimated to reach between £7,000 and £10,000. David Elstob, Auctioneer and Valuer at Addisons, is confident that there will be a great deal of interest in the piece. “Steinways are widely regarded as the world’s finest pianos and are renowned for their superior sound and responsive touch. Many people like to own them - not just for the joy of playing such a fine instrument - but because they represent such an excellent investment. Baby grands are also particularly popular because, at just over 5ft long, they are small enough to fit into the average size room whilst still retaining the powerful, rich tones of the larger grand pianos. This particular piece is in good condition and has been carefully looked after by the same family for over fifty years,” he added. Finished in rich mahogany, the Model S has been hand-crafted using the same materials and techniques that go into making the famous Steinway concert grand pianos. Each one takes nearly a year to create and has its own unique number.

A family member recalls that the piano was bought second-hand in the 1950’s in the north of England and was a much-loved family treasure. “The piano definitely held pride-of-place in the household. My aunt would play hymns and classical pieces, whereas my uncle preferred Scott Joplin and wartime music hall numbers. It was extremely versatile and we all loved to hear it played,” she said.

The piano is just part of a huge collection of fine objects – ranging from ceramics and glassware through to rugs, textiles and antique furniture – to be included in the forthcoming Spring Catalogue Sale and all items are illustrated in the sale catalogue, which can be viewed on line at www.addisons-auctioneers.co.uk.