I had the good fortune to perform on a 193? M&H yeaterday. Kept in beautiful condition by the grandaughter of the original owner, I believe it was the most responsive piano I have ever played, and possessed a great balanced tone as well.

My teacher frequently complains about my lack of ability to play softly (and she's right). But she should have heard me on that piano! I know, great pianists can play beautifully on almost anythig. Well, I'm not nor ever will be in that category, but this M&H greatly enhanced my ability to bring out phrasing that I can't manage on other pianos I have played.

Bart,

I am pleased to hear that you had a good experience with a piano of that age. Frequently even the BEST pianos are not in great artistic shape when they get to be this old, at least not without LOTS of tender loving care.

Do you know if the piano has had a new action installed? has there been other technical work done on it?

Those older Mason & Hamlins are really nice when they're in good working order. I find them to be much nicer sounding that the new ones.

Rich - My former piano teacher's 1905/1907 Model AA has the original WN&H action. To me this is a lot more responsive and comfortable to play on, when it was regulated, than the newer Renner/WN&H that Mason & Hamlin uses today.

John

I happen to like the tone of the vintage Mason & Hamlins better than the new ones as well. I don't know whether it's because they are better or more likely, because I'm at the "they don't make them like they use to" stage of life. Rich