How to buy
A new piano
Buying a new piano is a major purchase, so it’s important that the instrument you choose meets your needs as a pianist, has the look you seek, and suits your budget. With more than 30 years experience in the field, we can guide you through the selection process.
Piano quality is often closely linked to the value of your investment. The reputation and good name of the maker are also important criteria to consider.
The price of an upright or grand piano varies enormously depending on whether you choose a prestigious brand that produces a small number of instruments each year or a mass-produced brand. The difference in price between two pianos generally comes down to its country of origin, quality of workmanship, price of labour, quality of components, and the care with which each is assembled and finished.
Although most new pianos manufactured today meet good quality standards, the final result often varies from brand to brand or from dealer to dealer. It is important to consider the instrument’s level of preparation, dealer reputation, quality of assembly, sound, and the precision of the piano mechanism. Only with correct preparation will you benefit from your new piano’s full potential. At Pianos André Bolduc, you know you’re getting a properly prepared and tuned instrument.
Variety and Selection
While most stores only sell a single piano brand, Bolduc stands out for its broad selection of brands. To match the varied sound preferences of our customers, we feature a full line of pianos from manufacturers in Austria, Germany, United States, and Asia. Furniture styles, finishes, inlay combinations, sound, hammer type, soundboards, and prices vary from brand to brand. With such a broad range to choose from, you can find the piano that speaks to you. Meticulous preparation of our new, used, and restored pianos brings out the full potential of each instrument.
A used piano
5 to 15 years old
Purchasing a used piano can be tricky. Pianos of recent vintage,
between 5 and 15 years, are less risky, as they are generally considered
to be in new condition. But be careful. Prices can approach those
of new pianos, even though delivery, tuning, and warranty protection
are not included. Make sure you’re paying less. But how do
you know how much less? To find out the real value of a piano sold
privately—especially if the price is over $2,000—consult
our technical services.
Between 16 and 50 years old
For pianos more than 25 years old, you absolutely need an expert
opinion. Old pianos often have problems caused by wear and dryness.
Repair and restoration costs can quickly push up the price. Before
you buy a piano on impulse, take the time to get a written evaluation
of what work needs to be done. For a detailed estimate, call us.
Over 50 years old
If you opt for a model from the early 1900s or before, we can restore it
to new condition by replacing all the parts, notably the soundboard, pinblock,
strings, hammers, and keytops. You end up with the piano of your dreams—complete
with a gloriously rich sound and noble appearance. Bear in mind, however,
that major restoration often exceeds the cost of buying a new piano. It’s
your call!
If the person using an old piano is an up-and-coming young musician considering a professional career, it is preferable to choose a high-quality new or nearly new piano. The reason is simple: professional pianists and advanced students practise regularly and diligently. An aging piano mechanism just can’t stand the wear and tear.
With grand pianos of recognized brands, rebuilding is generally worth the investment, despite the costs. The cabinetry of pianos 50 or more years old is often magnificent and deserves to be restored to its onetime sound and glory. Don’t hesitate to ask us for a detailed estimate of the work required.
We look forward to serving you!
