Date/Serial No.: c. 1926 (101256)

Finish: Newly polished Ebony

Size: L: 5'6'' (168cm); W: 154cm

William Knabe & Co is one of the most prestigious of American piano makers that was established in 1887 and which still produces pianos today. It isn't very well known in the UK as they don't tend to export here, but in the States the make is generally considered comparable to world-class makes such as Chickering, Steinway and Mason & Hamlin. This specific instrument was hand-crafted in Baltimore in the mid-1920s at a time when pianos such as this were made in the workshop by craftsmen using traditional skills, unlike today's mass manufacturing techniques. The company at that time occupied 7 large buildings in Baltimore and employed around 750 workers. It is certainly one of the best 5'6'' piano we've ever come across, especially in terms of the strong resonant tone in the bass. Its 'punchy' bass sounds like a much bigger piano that it actually is! The reason why it sounds so good is partly due to the surface area of soundboard (it is especially wide given its length) but also due to the fact that we have replaced the hammers as part of our reconditioning of the action. The touch is medium in weight. The tone has a wonderful warmth and mellowness to it while still singing in the treble with clarity. If you are looking for a small black baby grand that really has a really sophisticated sound and a handsome appearance, then this may well be the piano for you!