One hundred years ago, on May 18th, 1917 piano manufacturers, suppliers, salesmen, dealers, in fact everyone involved in the piano trade descended on Chicago, Illinois for the annual Music Trades Convention. All of pianodom visit this annual event which comprised a series of conventions and exhibitions lasting over a week.
Chicago’s Congress Hotel as it is now, and in 1917 (inset)
The program illustrates the nature of the event:
The majority of the events took place at Chicago’s Congress Hall, however manufacturers would also exhibit there wares in various locations around the city.
At that time, Chicago was the centre of the US musical instrument industry, and although this event was for all musical instruments, it was the piano that dominated. Several large scale piano manufacturing plants were located in Chicago, and these would typically each produce 1,000-2,000 pianos a month.
The above diary details meetings of the various trade bodies taking place during the week. Here key players discussed relevant issues and formulated ideas for the betterment of the industry.
Labour Shortages
One issue apparently considered important (ref. The Music Trade Review, May 1917) and raised at The National Association of Music Roll Manufacturers’ Convention concerned the definition of the word “roll” (as in piano roll), who could use it, and what exactly it was!
Other subjects discussed included: war taxes; the lack of sales promotion across the industry; and the shortage of skilled labour.
On April 28 just a few days earlier, the House of Representatives amended the Army Bill to embody conscription. Munitions factories had already recruited a large proportion of the skilled workforce, but now with the commencement of conscription the industry was facing an even greater labour shortage. Perhaps this subject was a little more important than the status of the the word “roll”.
Banquet of the National Piano Manufacturers’ Association in Congress Hotel (May 18, 1917)
The various trade bodies held their individual banquets and formal dinners, in the Congress Hotel – the main event being the National Association of Piano Merchants’ banquet in the hotel’s Gold Room.
Precursor to the NAMM Show
This annual event was to evolve into today’s NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) show. NAMM continued to have its annual convention in Chicago, before introducing a winter show in California. The summer show remained in Chicago until 1990, whence it moved to Atlantic City, and then to Nashville. The winter show, held in Anaheim, CA, is now the far bigger event. In 1917 pianos dominated – today they form a very much smaller part.
Chicago’s (Third) Coliseum, with the National Piano Dealers Association banner flying. The building was demolished in 1982 for health and safety reasons.
Probably the most important reason to make the trip to Chicago, was to visit The National Music Show at Chicago’s Coliseum, which enabled manufacturers to show off their new products. These included the latest instruments, newly published music rolls, and state-of-the-art talking machines (subsequently known as gramophones). I’ve included, at the end of this piece, a summary of the major exhibitors to give a flavour of the industry at that time.
So 100 years ago, Chicago hosted an industry in rude health, but one obviously feeling the effects of the momentous events across the Atlantic. In the US, over 300,00 pianos were being manufactured each year. America had 50% of the world market. The piano market was at its peak.
Key Exhibitors at the National Music Show 1917.
Check for one for sale currently. Because of their age andtreatment, ABChase pianos vary in price from free to upwards of$40,000. When built, they were a very fine example of craftsmanshipand musicality, comparable to the best names in the industry. But,they lack the charisma of Baldwin and Steinway, so many were poorlytreated or even seriously damaged. A professional technician canpretty quickly determine the condition of such an instrument. Ihave a 6-8 parlor grand that was built by ABChase somewhere between1920-1930. It was restored before I bought it, and 'ebonized'.Professional musicians who play it are always impressed with itstonal character. My piano tuner normally works on Yamahas, likesthem, but is impressed with the more classically voiced characterof the Chase I have. Unfortunately, ABChase went out of businessafter the onset of the depression. They were known to recruitworkers from Steinway, who found the living conditions in New YorkCity unpleasant. ABChase grands compare very favorably to Steinwaysin quality during that period.
How much for a 1943 galperin baby grand piano by Baldwin?
it would be worth any where between 56,000 and 70,000
How much is a Woodward Chicago Grand upright piano serial number 35026 worth?What do you get if you drop a grand piano down a mine shaft?
If you drop a grand piano down a mine shaft you would get a flat minor.
How many key's on a grand piano?
on a grand piano there would be 88 keys total, including the white notes flats and sharps.
How much would a grand piano cost?
I have a normal piano and it was like 2 or 3 grand. So a grand piano would probably cost 4 or 5 grand. ..............This is unbelievably off base.. The cost of a grand piano can range from six or seven thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, and maybe more. The most expensive grand ever sold was auctioned off at 1.2 million.
What is the value range of a 1929 Kimball grand piano?
The value range of a 1929 Kimball grand piano would be $20,000 after total restoration and all.
What are the 2 piano types?
There are a lot of types of pianos but if were talking about the 'Major' types of pianos, It would be the Upright piano and Grand Piano.
What is the highest and lowest notes on the piano?
The highest note on a grand piano is the note C. The lowest note on a piano would be D.
What is a 1916 Davenport Treacy Piano worth?
You have to supply a lot more information than that. Is it an upright piano, a grand piano, has it ever been restored or rebuilt and if so, when, if an upright - how tall is it, if a grand - how long is it, what kind of wood is it made of or is it black or white or some other solid color, what is the condition of the piano, is it tuned and… Read More
What do you get if you drop a piano down a mineshaft?
If you drop a grand piano down a mine shaft you would get a flat minor.
What do you get when you drop a piano down a mine shaft?
If you drop a grand piano down a mine shaft you would get a flat minor.
Does anyone have a grand chase account with a high level Amy they would like to give to me for free?
Hi!~ ^_^ I need a account with a high level Amy, from Grand Chase ! Anyone give me for free?:) Thx!
Weight of a piano?
That would depend on its size. Spinet, Console, Upright, what length of a grand - all would be different.
What is the age of a Weber concert grand piano serial number 26908?
According to the Pierce Piano Atlas, the date would be betwen 1880 and 1885.
What is the resale value of a WM Knabe baby grand piano serial?
First, I need a serial number and age for piano. It would be hard to say.
What is the quality and value of a 1949 Baldwin grand piano model R?
The 1949 Baldwin Model R grand piano is a fine, fine instrument, when in good condition. It's difficult to assess the value of such a piano, because price is so dependent on condition. From what I've seen them sell for, though, I would say that the value of a 1949 Baldwin Model R grand piano is between $11,000 and $26,000.
What is the value of a 5'2 Baldwin Baby Grand 14 year old piano?
Baldwin pianos typically have high resale values. A 5'2 Baldwin Baby Grand Piano from the year 2000 would have a resale value of 19,500 dollars.
What type of piano is used in a Orchestra?
A piano usually isn't one of the instruments included in the typical layout of a symphony orchestra. However, if a piano is used say, as a solo instrument (e.g. for a piano concerto), an upright grand would be the usual choice.
How much would a 1940 kimball baby grand piano be worth?
Well, I paid $1,700. for a mahogany Kimball baby grand in 1979. It had just been worked over by a restorer but I know it had not been given new strings. It sounded pretty good so I knew it was in proper tune and probably had been regulated and/or voiced. (Again, the bass strings were not as resonant as I would have hoped, but still acceptable. Maybe the problem was this was not a full-sized… Read More
Baby Grand Piano Serial Number 166948 Who made this piano?
Unfortunately, It would be impossible to determine the make of a piano with only a serial number. If the name isn't on the name board, then look inside the piano on the Iron plate. If it's not there, then a piano technician might be able to tell you the make.
How can I sell my Yamaha grand piano?
I would go to craigslist.com. You could also post fliers at your local supermarkets.
What would be the value of a normandie New York cabinet grand piano circa 1900?What are the notes of the base clef on the piano?
The notes on a grand piano for base clef would be C B A G F. To add on the notes on a treble clef would be C D E F G A B.
When was the Starck Cabinet Grand Piano 107291 built?
I have just acquired a Starck Cabinet Grand for transposing and music-writing. The piano I have has serial number 109982 and the year 1930 written next to it, in pencil. From other Starck owners, I would place your piano's manufacture date between 1920 and 1930. They don't seem to be worth much money, but I didn't get mine for investment purposes.. I hope this helps a little.. John
What is 'Stand up piano'?
I believe the term 'stand up piano' is another way of saying 'upright piano'. An upright piano has strings that are vertical (top to bottom) unlike the more popular grand piano which has strings that are horizontal (front to back). If you would like more info go to http:/en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piano
What is the value of Wurlitzer piano with serial number 326780?
Your piano was built in 1946 or 1947. Value depends on condition, size and your local market. If it's an upright, in average condition it would probably be worth $200 or less. A grand, maybe a little more. If it's a beat up POS you probably wouldn't be able to give it away.
How do you record in grand chase?
press Ctrl+1 at pvp round but idk if it would work at real dungeons you should try that
How high to hang light over piano?
If you are looking to hand a light over a grand piano, be sure to leave room to open the lid of the piano without crashing into the light. If you are hanging the light so that you can better see the music, a much better choice is to purchase a piano light which is made especially for a piano. There are piano lamp models for both vertical and grand pianos, as well as floor… Read More
You have old piano sheet music and want to know what it is worth?
Old piano sheets? I don't think they are worth much. But you should try Ebay. They may be worth alot; depending upon the age and, of course, the song. Say its from the 1750s! You would get some cashing for tht. [: Your welcome! (;
How much is a Baldwin Hamilton Baby Grand mahogany?
The beginning cost for this piano would be $4,500 dollars. This would depend on condition and whether it is new or used.
What would the 10th character in Grand Chase would be like?
It's not yet decided but I've heard on forums that it would be the hardest quest to get! Even your main character can't finish it!
What is the value of a 70 yr old Baldwin Acrosonic Piano?
I DANIEL RISNER THINK IT WOULD BE WORTH $20.000.00
What would Bensman New York upright piano serial number 18622 be worth?How much is an luigi sandini oil painting worth?
5 grand. I have a small 4x4 painting of his. I would love to know what it is worth
What are the differences between the various types of pianos?
Stainway&Sons is a very very very famous, expensive, and VERY high quality piano, then would come Yamaha. But Stainway&sons (especially grand, then..baby grand, then..back flat) Because of how they are built with such carefullness and makes it better quality! :) El (Piano)
How many octaves are there on a piano?
The answer is 7 octaves plus a minor third. (A0 to C8) Most grand pianos have 88 keys, which would give them a 7 octave plus m3rd range. However some older grand pianos have only 85 keys and even sometimes less, which would reduce the range of the piano. On a normal piano (one with 88 keys), you have 7 1/3 octaves. There are 12 (chromatic) notes per octave.
What is the age of a Baldwin baby grand serial number 18987?
In dating a Baldwin by serial number, knowing whether it is an upright or grand piano is important, as each of these was serialized separately. In this case, a baby grand with serial 18987 would have been built in 1912.
How much would a Ellington upright piano company piano serial 22846 be worth?
A technician needs to come in to appraise it for you. Much depends on how well it was taken care of. How often it was tuned for example. Neglect goes a long ways towards the demise of a piano.
What is meaning of flugelbauer?
'Fl端gelbauer' is a German word, and is used most commonly in the piano industry. Fl端gelbauer means 'Grand Piano Maker' or 'Grand Piano Builder'. Fl端gel is the term for a 'grand piano' in German. Bauer is the term for 'maker' or 'builder' in German when used in this context. Klavier is the term for 'vertical or upright piano' in German. A 'Fl端gelbauer' is the person in a piano factory or piano assembly facility that oversees Grand… Read More
Hom many black keys would be on a 72 key piano?
There are 7 octaves on a standard grand piano (plus a minor third, or one additional 'black key'). If each octave has 5 accidentals (or black keys) then 7 octaves would have 35 black keys, plus the additional B Flat at the bottom of the piano...so: A 72 key piano has 36 black keys.
How much is a Jeff skinner rookie card woth?
It would be worth around $200 at this time but later (10-15 years) it would be worth around $10-15 grand.
How much are antique player piano rolls worth?
I have three player piano rolls imperial song and record out of Chicago. blues fox trott. I would like to know if they are worth selling. I picked them up at a estate sale. my name is Jacqueline I can be reached at 832-561-8756.
What the value of piano with serial?
- Depends on age - Depends on condition - Depends on size (Spinet? Upright? Baby grand? Concert grand?) - Depends on brand The serial number is the final thing the prospective buyer would be interested in.
Does anyone have a fairly large plush lugia they would be willing to sell?
It's worth 5 grand, would you be willing to pay for that?
How much does a Lester Piano Betsy Ross Edition cost?
1,000,000 dollars if it is really good condition. I would by it right now if u still have it but the highest i would go is 900 grand
What year was a chickering square grand piano built serial?
I own an 1883 Chickering square grand piano and the serial number was branded into the wood behind the keyboard. Where yours is will depend on the age of your piano since styles and sizes changed over time. If it was also restored at one time the restorer may not have replaced the number during restoration. If you go to Actionpianos webpage pianosrebuilt.com you can see a picture of my piano. I have had it… Read More
What should price be for a Young Chang Grand Piano that is in great condition and twenty years old?
The price would not be less than what you paid for it 20 years ago.
What is the heaviest percussion instrument?
There are a lot of heavy Percussion Instruments. Some of them would be: Gong A Drumset Bass Drum Timpani Vibraphone Grand Piano, and many more.
What musical family is the piano in?You are interested in a suzuki petite baby grand digital piano Is it a good piano and where can you see them in a store?
Suzuki piano's.. I can't keep my mind off of them, but myself I would recommend Young Chang, Baldwin, or another type of piano. Check with your local musicians. Try anywhere, ask around. Visit your local music store for an answer.
Classic Mahogany Baby Grand By The Davenport – Treacy Piano Company
(not including applicable sales tax & shipping charges)
DEPOSITS: The restoration of this instrument has not been completed. A 30% deposit is required on instruments pending restoration. This deposit holds the instrument and keeps it from being offered to another clients, and it also makes that piano’s restoration a priority. Once we complete the restoration, we invite the client to visit our shop to see and hear the piano. If the client is unable to visit our shop, we will send professional photos and videos of the piano for review. The client then has the option of paying the balance and purchasing the piano, transferring their balance to another piano in our shop, or getting a full refund for their deposit. The client is never at risk.
The Davenport – Treacy Piano Company was known for building higher quality pianos on a smaller scale during the early 20th Century. This is a lovely example of a traditional style classic mahogany baby grand piano from the earlier years of the firm. This lovely little piano is made of beautiful Honduras Mahogany wood, and has been well cared for and maintained all its life. The wood grain and patina is especially beautiful on this piano – it appears a bit brighter with more depth than the average mahogany piano. Like most pianos by Davenport – Treacy, this piano has all the signs of being a very good sounding instrument after restoration. Computerized player mechanisms can be installed if desired.
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Can you find your instrument listed in these antique catalogs?
Foundery Advertisements From The Davenport-Treacy Piano Company, New York
Player Piano Advertisements For The Davenport-Treacy Piano, Company, Circa 1914
The Davenport-Treacy Piano Company was established in New York in 1868 by John Davenport and Daniel F. Treacy. At first the firm was based around a substantial foundry, and they were a major supplier of piano plates and miscellaneous hardware to the industry. They began building pianos under their own name shortly after 1870, and they enjoyed much success.
In addition to the Davenport Treacy brand name, the firm also built pianos under The Carter Piano Company brand name. The firm was reorganized in 1925, with new factories located at West 51st Street, New York City. Davenport Treacy built pianos until 1957, at which time the Davenport Treacy name was purchased by the industry giant Kohler & Campbell.
Can you find your instrument listed in these antique catalogs?
Foundery Advertisements From The Davenport-Treacy Piano Company, New York
Player Piano Advertisements For The Davenport-Treacy Piano, Company, Circa 1914
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Davenport Treacy Baby Grand Piano Reviews
Davenport Treacy Baby Grand Piano
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