

I would agree that the finish appears to be mahogany, and the style is early to mid 1920s. It is also reasonably in tune although will benefit from the attention of a tuner. The mechanics seem to be in good order and the tone is really quite good (to my uneducated ear). In answer to your question I dont think that this was ever a player piano, there doesnt seem to be any evidence of modification that I can see, but I am no expert. The player held its tune well at concert pitch despite not having been tuned for some time. They are usually well built and provided it is in good condition inside, should tune up OK. Is this correct I have had a Aeolian Farrand player piano in oak through my hands a couple of years back, and seen a Farrand non-player grand some time ago. It also produced Aeolian and Vocalion gramophones, and early Vocalion discs.Īs you dont mention it, I assume it has not previously been a player piano. The Aeolian company was the main maker of player pianos in the UK, owning brands including Orchestrelle Pianola Farrand Weber Steck.

It will most likely have come from the Aeolian factory at Hayes in the 1920s (others may be able to date it more accurately.) The Farrand brand was usually applied to the cheapest models. I would be very happy if anyone can shed any light on the history of this instrument for me. The piano looks to be quite old but still plays ok and has quite a good tone, although it will benefit from a bit of a tune up and some TLC. Farrand Piano S Serial Number 10138Īnd what I believe to be the serial number 10138 is stamped on the inside of the lower front panel and also into the top of the side panel so that it is easily visible when the lid is lifted. On the inside of the case, stamped into the wood of the side panels below the keyboard is C7 29. This is especially true of units made by the Aeolian. A number of different forms of piano action and structure were invented, such as the. See individual names for numbers not listed.

Foster Armstrong Mendelssohn Wheelock Franklin Henry F. There is also a medalion with the words THE AEOLIAN COMPANY LTD and an AC monogram cast into the top of the frame, and the letters FO cast into the frame below the keyboard. On upright units made after 1960, some manufacturers stamped the serial number on the back of the piano. The second number is the actual serial number range for your piano. The gold painted frame has the name FARRAND LONDON cast into the top right hand corner. It is an upright piano with an iron frame in what I think is a mahogany case.
