It’s a question I get asked all the time. The phone rings, and on the other end is a hopeful homeowner with an old piano they’ve inherited, found, or simply grown tired of. They ask, “Do you buy old pianos?” or “Could you use this for parts?”
The truth is, while I appreciate the thought, my answer is almost always no. And that’s usually the part that surprises people the most.
The Piano Tech’s Perspective: Why I Can’t Take Your Old Piano
As a piano technician, my job is to service and maintain these incredible instruments, but that doesn’t mean every piano is worth a new investment of time and money. Here’s what most people don’t realize about the vast market of used pianos:
- Pianos Have a Lifespan. Just like a car, a piano’s parts wear out over time. Strings, felt hammers, soundboards, and the intricate action all age. While some high-quality pianos from well-known makers can be worth rebuilding, most instruments simply reach the end of their useful life. The cost to restore them far outweighs their value.
- The Market is Flooded. If you’ve ever looked online, you’ll see a sea of “free” pianos. The reality is that the supply of old pianos far exceeds the demand for them. Most people are surprised to learn that their once-beautiful piano has little to no resale value.
- The Logistical Nightmare. A piano is a monumental piece of furniture. It’s incredibly heavy and difficult to move, requiring specialized skills and equipment. The costs involved in moving, storing, and evaluating a piano that likely has no value are simply not worth it for a technician or shop.
Your Best Options for Getting Rid of an Old Piano
So, if a piano technician isn’t going to take it, what are your options?
1. The “Free” Method: The Facebook Marketplace Gamble
The most common and often most successful strategy is to list your piano on Facebook Marketplace or a similar online classified site for free. Be honest in your description and include clear photos. By listing it for free, you attract people who are just looking for an instrument to learn on, without the burden of cost.
A word of caution: Be sure to disclose any known issues. If the piano doesn’t hold a tune, has sticky keys, or needs major work, it’s not fair to pass that problem on to a new owner. An old piano in working condition can be a fantastic gift for a family starting out, but a broken one is just a very heavy burden.
2. The Non-Profit Route: St. Louis’s Pianos for People
If you live in the St. Louis area, you’re in luck. We have an incredible non-profit called Pianos for People. Their mission is to provide pianos and free music lessons to families in need. They will even pick up a donated piano, which is a huge benefit!
However, remember the rule about value and condition. Pianos for People receives hundreds of calls a year from people trying to donate what is essentially junk. To be a viable donation for their program, the piano must be of good quality and in good condition. After a thorough inspection and any necessary repairs, they place these pianos in homes and schools where they can bring joy for years to come.
3. The Professional Hauling Method
If your piano is truly at the end of its life and is not a candidate for donation, you’ll likely need to hire a professional hauling company. This comes with a fee, which can range from a couple hundred to several hundred dollars, depending on the size of the piano and the difficulty of the move (e.g., stairs). While it’s an expense, it’s often the safest and most efficient way to dispose of an un-sellable instrument.
Ultimately, the best way to get rid of an old piano is to be realistic about its value and condition. With a little honesty and a clear plan, you can avoid a disposal fee and hopefully find your old piano a new home where it will be appreciated, or at the very least, a proper final resting place.