Sooner or later many families face the same question: the piano nobody plays anymore, taking up a wall in the lounge room. Before it goes, it is worth knowing your options. Some pianos find wonderful new homes. Some, honestly, are at the end of their life.
Option 1: Sell it
If the piano is a well known brand, has been maintained and holds a tune, it may be worth selling. A piano technician or retailer can give you an idea of its value, and an honest listing with good photos helps it sell. Buyers will want to know about access, so mention steps and stairs in the listing. When a piano is sold, it is usually the buyer who books the move, and having the access details ready makes that easy.
Option 2: Give it away
Plenty of families, students and teachers are glad to take a free piano, especially an upright that still plays well. Free listings and local community groups work well. Be clear that whoever takes it is responsible for moving it, and that a piano mover will need good access.
Option 3: Donate it
Some schools, churches, halls and charities accept pianos, but most are selective and many will want a technician’s report first. Call before you offer, and be ready to describe the brand, age and condition.
Option 4: Restore it
If the piano carries family history, restoration can bring it back to life. A restorer can tell you what is involved and what it is likely to cost. We move pianos to and from restoration workshops, so it can go in and come home again when the work is done. Read taking a piano to a restorer for how that works.
Option 5: Disposal
Some pianos are past saving: a cracked frame, a split soundboard, heavy rust or severe insect damage. In that case disposal is the responsible choice. Check your local council’s hard rubbish rules first, because pianos are heavy and bulky and are not accepted everywhere.
Whatever you choose, plan the move
Every option except leaving it where it is means moving a heavy instrument. Our guide on how to move a piano explains what is involved, and how much a piano weighs explains why it is not a job for a couple of friends. When you are ready, ask us for a quote.
Questions
Old pianos: FAQs
Can I give my piano away for free?
Yes. Many people are happy to take a working piano. Make it clear that they need to organise the move.
Will schools or charities take an old piano?
Some will, but many are selective. Call first and describe the brand, age and condition.
Is my old piano worth restoring?
It depends on the piano and its condition. A restorer can assess it and give you an idea of cost.
Ready when you are