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About Ralph Onesti
Expertise
I am a Registered/tested member of the Piano Technicians Guild with 45 years of experience in all phases and levels of the acoustic piano. I will answer any questions regarding acoustic piano only. Electronic keyboards and player/reproducing pianos are outside of my expertise. Anything to do with: Construction, Service, Tuning, Purchasing, Selling, Insurance Appraisal, Rebuilding, Repairs, Legal issues, Maintenance, Environmental issues, Finish issues with acoustic pianos. My full resume can be found at: http://www.onestipiano.com

Experience
In business since 1964, Extensive Rebuilding/Repair/Service facility. A certified, tested, member of the Piano Technicians Guild, Member of the Technical Advisory Service to Attorneys. Have performed piano service on Concert Stage, Recording Studios, and in the home. Http://www.onestipiano.com

Organizations
The Piano Technicians Guild, Master Piano Technicians of America, Technical Advisory Service to Attorneys. (TASA), IAPBT.

Publications
The Piano Technicians Journal

Education/Credentials
Attented Temple University, Drexel University, Philadelphia Community college all in the areas of engineering and Music. I taught a two semester course in Piano Technology and the related acoustical physics at Temple University. I have taught extensively for the Paino Technicians Guild and the Master Piano Technicians of America.

Past/Present Clients
The list is rather extensive. I would suggest you go http://www.onestipiano.com where there is a comprehensive list of clients past and present.

You are here: Experts > Music/Performing Arts > Musical Instruments > Piano, Organ, and Keyboard > Sherman Clay Baby Grand

Piano, Organ, and Keyboard - Sherman Clay Baby Grand

Expert: Ralph Onesti - 11/4/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi Ralph,

I am looking at a Sherman Clay baby grand, manufactured in 1995, serial number G018404. It is 62 inches. Do you have any information on how reliable this model might be over the long term? Any issues with tuning, construction, etc that you might know about? And lastly, would $2,000 be a fair price for one that appears to be in good condition on the exterior(visually, from an untrained person's point of view!)

Thank you so much! I really appreciate your help!
Christine

ANSWER: Hi Christine:

Sherman Clay is one convoluted company. And I do believe this piano was manufactured under Kimball control by who knows whom!!!!

I don't have problem with the price. I do have a problem with the company.

Here's what I would do if I were you:

1. Go http://www.ptg.org Plug in your zip code under "locate a technician".

2. Interview a few. Get one with at least 10 years experience in pre-sales inspections.

3. Hire a registered technician to go with you and inspect the piano.

I am concerned with the pin block more than anything else.

Regardless of the price, if the piano turns out to be borderline or unserviceable, you need to know that BEFORE you bring it home.

Let me know how you do.

Regards,

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Ralph,

Thank you for such a speedy reply! I don't know much about the construction of pianos . . . would an issue with the pin block be something that is expensive to address?

I will definitely take your advice and get a tech to inspect. Thanks for providing the link!

Best,
Christine

Answer
Hi Christine:

Expensive is relative.

In any grand, a pin block replacement is major.

If it were a high brand name like a Mason and Hamlin, it would be cost effective.

In a Sherman Clay...EXPENSIVE and NOT cost effective.

We're talking 3 times the asking price of the piano.

Now, if this piano is serviceable, then 2K is OK if the technician thinks it will give you a few years of service.

If the technician makes any funny faces at all...move on!

Look for another piano.

Let's see what the tech says before we jump to any conclusions.

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