February 23, 2021
To Whom It May Concern,
I have recently inspected the 1892 rosewood-finish 6’ 11” Steinway model B-85 grand piano, serial number 73134, owned by Carolyn Berry, residing in Cockeysville, Maryland 21030. These are my findings:

Case: The case is in fair-to-good cosmetic condition. The piano was refinished at some point in high gloss clear lacquer over the piano’s rosewood veneer. There are several noticeable blemishes in the finish that could be touched-up. There is noticeable sun damage (fading of color) on the treble side of the case, along with accompanying cracking of the finish. The aftermarket non-Steinway spade legs are not original to the instrument, along with the generic music desk. The pedal lyre is original, but missing its two support braces. Despite some fading, the toplid is in exceptionally good condition for a piano of this age.

Topside: The piano apparently returned to the Steinway & Sons New York factory in 1934. At this time a new soundboard and bridge set were installed. The pinblock appears to be original, circa 1892. The piano was restrung with oversize 3/0 tuning pins. The tuning pin torque is adequate. The cast iron plate has been refinished but not re-lettered. The sustain is good, the tone mellow.

Keyboard/Action: The action mechanism exhibits replaced genuine Steinway hammers along with non-Steinway hammer shanks, both installed perhaps in the 1980s.The whippens appear to be circa 1934. The keyset is original. The original 50 ivory keys have been replaced with plastic key covers. The damper underlever tray is original. The damper head felts have been replaced at some time. The trapwork is in original condition. Mechanically the action regulation is operable.

Overview: This is a 19th century Steinway grand piano that has had numerous, somewhat dis-jointed, repair procedures performed spanning many decades. As an early 85-key Steinway, it is not currently as desirable as its modern 88-key counterpart. As-is the instrument is tunable and playable, yet optimally a complete restoration is indicated.

A fee of $165 was paid by Mrs. Berry’s son, Jefferson Berry, for the preparation of this evaluation.

David G. Hughes, RPT