Business Details
50 Years
experience
Expert Antique Piano Restoration & Sales in Kent
Established in 1976 by David Winston, Period Piano has become a globally recognised authority in the restoration and preservation of historic keyboard instruments. Our expertise spans from 18th-century square pianos to Art Deco grand pianos, with a particular focus on instruments of significant historical value, including those owned by Beethoven and Chopin. Our team combines deep musical knowledge with meticulous craftsmanship to reveal each instrument's original voice while adhering to ethical conservation practices. As Royal Warrant holders since 2012, we maintain the highest standards of care in both casework and musical restoration. Our commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through the use of FSC-certified materials and recycled timbers.We work directly with clients to ensure their active involvement in the restoration process, treating each instrument as a precious historical document. Our instruments are regularly featured in concert halls and recording studios worldwide, testament to our reputation for excellence. We maintain a comprehensive stock of both restored and unrestored instruments for discerning collectors and institutions. Our workshop handles both private commissions and institutional projects, ensuring the preservation of musical heritage for future generations. This unique combination of artistry, historical knowledge, and technical expertise has made us the trusted choice for musicians, museums, and collectors globally.
Services
Antique Piano Restoration
Harpsichord Sales
Fortepiano Restoration
Music Furniture Restoration
Bespoke Piano Services
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- Established in 1976 with decades of specialist experience in keyboard instrument restoration
- Royal Warrant holders for piano conservation since 2012
- Specialists in restoring historically significant instruments including Beethoven's 1817 Broadwood
- Ethical conservation using FSC-certified materials and recycled timbers
- Direct client collaboration throughout the restoration process
Associations and certifications
- Royal Warrant as piano conservators and Restorers by Appointment to the Queen
What people say
Meticulous attention to detail
Preserve original instrument voices
Royal Warrant standard work
Expert historical knowledge
Client collaboration approach
Services
Antique Piano Restoration
Specialist restoration of keyboard instruments from 1760s to 1970, preserving original character while ensuring musical functionality. Our process combines historical research with traditional craftsmanship techniques. Each restoration maintains the instrument's unique voice and historical integrity for modern use.
Harpsichord Sales
Curated selection of authentic and newly built harpsichords representing various historical styles. Each instrument combines period-accurate construction with modern playability requirements. Available in both restored original and newly crafted versions.
Fortepiano Restoration
Expert conservation of fortepianos from the Classical and Romantic periods. Focus on maintaining original materials while ensuring structural stability. Special attention to period-appropriate materials and construction techniques for historically informed performance.
Music Furniture Restoration
Restoration of decorative cases and cabinetry for historic keyboard instruments. Using traditional wood finishing techniques and ethical material sourcing. Ensures visual authenticity complements each instrument's musical character.
Bespoke Piano Services
Tailored solutions for unique instrument requirements, including replica construction and hybrid designs. Combines historical expertise with modern acoustic principles. Available for both private collectors and institutional clients.
People
David Winston
Founder & Master Piano Builder
Internationally recognised piano builder and restorer with over 45 years' experience. Established Period Piano in 1976. Holds Royal Warrant for piano conservation. Specialises in revealing original instrument voices through meticulous restoration techniques.
Questions
What types of instruments do you specialise in?
We specialise in keyboard instruments from 1760s to 1970, including harpsichords, fortepianos, square pianos, grand pianos, and period music furniture.
Do you hold any official accreditations?
Yes, we hold the Royal Warrant as piano conservators and restorers by Appointment to the Queen since 2012.
What makes your restoration approach unique?
We combine historical research with traditional craftsmanship, working directly with clients to maintain each instrument's original character and musical voice.
Do you use ethical materials?
Yes, we use FSC-certified timbers, recycled materials, and avoid new ivory products in all our conservation work.
Can I purchase unrestored instruments?
Yes, we maintain a stock of unrestored antique pianos available for purchase before workshop restoration scheduling.
Are your instruments used professionally?
Yes, our restored instruments are regularly used in concert halls and recording studios worldwide by professional musicians.
