May, 2013
As I’m sitting in front of my gorgeous just delivered upright Steinway & Sons, I’m in awe. I couldn’t be happier that I made that call to Rod almost two years ago when searching for my dream piano.
Going through quite a few pianos before left me with high expectations. Not long after I picked up piano lessons my parents bought me a used baby grand. That little Bosendorfer got weaved into many great memories of learning to play piano over twenty years ago. Since then I went through a few uprights while traveling abroad. The last one was a retired concert upright John Broadwood & Sons – a great pleasure to own during my few years of working in New Zealand, as it had that unforgettable mellow sound.
The one call I made to Rod ended my journey when Rod told me he had an upright Steinway & Sons that just came in and that it was in a really good shape for such an old piano. To be exact, Rod mentioned that it was one of those 2% that would be a good candidate for restoring. Rod sent some pictures in a hurry shortly after I showed up at his store. It was love at first sight. The piano was in good playing condition despite its age of more than 100 years old. Rod explained more particulars as I inquired about the restoration process.
Rod has a real gift when it comes to pianos. His knowledge is deep and detailed, and his craftsmanship of highest quality. I was sold and the process begun. It has been a pleasure going through the restoration as Rod kept me in the loop throughout the whole process by a lot of pictures via emails and texts. Plus there were a few times I stopped by to see my new piano take shape, which ended with long and fun piano chats and from which I have also learned so much more about pianos.
I cannot express enough gratitude to Rod, his wife Meranda and his staff. Finding my dream piano for me was like soul searching. It brings me joy to know it was taken care of by the best piano craftsman. It also gave me tremendous comfort to know that every small detail was mindfully attended to and so it will last me a lifetime. It is wonderful to see this beautiful old piano reinstated to an impeccable condition; the work has exceeded all my expectations. The end result is priceless. The sound is exquisite. It has put all my past pianos to rest forever. Having a busy clinical workload, piano has always been my outlet and way to recharge. This one is the piano of my dreams, just feels so sublime to play. As if the instrument has a soul of its own.
Dr. M. Smit,
Surrey BC
