AboutThomas Britanyak Expertise I am an organ/piano technician who has been actively involved with the design, building, repair, maintenance and installation of organs and pianos for 35 years. I began as a keyboard instrument apprentice and hold degrees in music and electronics.
If you need a piano's date of manufacture, please go to http://www.pianoexchange.com/howold.htm or http://www.bluebookofpianos.com/pianoage.html
I am happy to answer musical or technical questions, however, I CANNOT offer appraisals on pianos or organs. Please do not ask what an instrument is worth. For this service please contact an experienced local appraiser or try the following links:
https://mmm1100.verio-web.com/blueb1/appraisal.html or http://www.57piano.com/questions.htm
Question I own a hammond organ that I need info about.It is a Hammond Chord Organ,Model S6,Form B and Serial # 28983.I am interested about how old it is,does it have any value and how hard it is to play.Any info you can provide would be great.Thank you for any time and effort you incure while helping me.
Answer Hello Kevin! Thank you for the question. The Hammond chord organ was an immensely popular instrument back in the 50's and 60's where they easily fit into apartments, mobile homes and even bedrooms. Because they lacked the large pedal boards of a standard organ their footprint was considerably smaller. Since Hammond put out the world's first electronic, non-winded organ, these smaller instruments not only fit into limited space, but were affordable. They really put out a lot of music. I remember acquiring one of these instruments years ago and actually got pretty good at playing it. It was easy and fun! In order to increase sales, Hammond created chord organ clubs across the nation where people could learn about ever inventive ways to play the instrument. As time rolled along, so did technology. The chord organ's capabilities were no match for the new solid state instruments. Because of this, the chord organ's fascination dwindled as even Hammond began offering new and improved spinet models. The chord organ was simply outclassed. However, the instrument is still fun in the hands of those who choose to spend time on them. I recently received a phone call from a woman who was trying to find a chord organ…buyers are out there. The value of these older organs is completely dependant upon the condition of the instrument and what the buyer is willing to pay for it...usually between 200 to 400 dollars.