Reviving the Past: Piano Keytop Restoration at Brigham Larson Pianos

Hi everyone! Recently, we posted a video introducing one of our talented technicians, Ezzy, as she worked on restoring a set of piano keys from a 19th-century piano. In the video we showed how Ezzy transforms these worn-out keys with a pristine, uniform finish—ensuring the piano not only looks fantastic but continues to maintain its excellent sound.

Restoring piano keytops is a delicate and detailed process that requires a combination of skill, patience, and deep understanding of the instrument. To give you a better look at what this process takes, here a close look at the steps involved in piano keytop restoration:

1. Assessing the Condition: The first step in keytop restoration is to carefully assess the condition of the piano keys. This involves checking for wear and tear, discoloration, and any structural damage. Given the age of the 19th-century piano we saw in the video, we can assume that the keys had seen a lot of use and required significant attention.

2. Sanding: Next, a technician will meticulously sand each key to remove the old, worn-out surface. This step is crucial for creating a smooth base for the new finish, done with precision to ensure the keys are uniform and free from any imperfections.

3. Coloring: Once the keys were sanded, the next step is to apply color. This involves carefully matching the color of the original keys to ensure a consistent and authentic look. In the video you’ll see Ezzy uses high-quality materials to achieve a finish that is both durable and visually appealing.

4. Blending: The final blending ensures that the new finish seamlessly integrates with the original parts of the piano, creating a flawless appearance. Ezzy’s attention to detail during this step ensured that the keys not only look fantastic but also feel smooth and comfortable to play.

Why Professional Piano Keytop Restoration Matters

Piano keytop restoration is not just about aesthetics; it’s about preserving the instrument’s integrity and ensuring it performs at its best. At Brigham Larson Pianos, we understand the sentimental and historical value of pianos, and we approach each restoration project with the utmost care and expertise. Our goal is to bring new life to your piano, making it a cherished piece for generations to come. If you’d like to read more about restoration processes like this, check out our other Piano Restoration Blogs.