1918 Merrill 56" Wood Finish Upright Piano

This 1918 Merrill upright is a great example of what a properly restored heirloom piano can become. It has gone through a full cabinet refinishing and what I refer to as a hybrid restoration on the inside.

With a piano of this age, the goal is to preserve the original structure—the plate and soundboard—while replacing or rebuilding the components that wear out over time. That’s exactly what’s been done here.

This piano has received a substantial amount of new material, including new hammers, dampers, shanks, felts, leathers, cloth, bushings, and new keytops. At the same time, original components that were still structurally sound—like the hammer butts—have been carefully refurbished, including repinning and new leather where needed. The entire action has been aligned, lubricated, tightened, and fully regulated.

The cabinet has been completely refinished, and cosmetically it presents very well. Details like a replica decal, replated pedals, new casters, and fully cleaned and restored trapwork all contribute to a very complete restoration.

From a performance standpoint, this piano has a full, rich tone with a strong bass and a clear, well-defined treble. The touch is on the slightly lighter side of medium, which makes it easy and comfortable to play without sacrificing control.

What I like about this Merrill upright:

• Hybrid restoration — new components where needed, original structure preserved
• Fully rebuilt action (hammers, dampers, shanks, keytops, and more)
• Solid original plate and soundboard
• Full, rich tone with clear treble
• Smooth, slightly lighter-than-average touch
• Fully refinished cabinet with restored hardware and details

A piano like this, when restored properly, has decades of life ahead of it. In many cases, these older uprights offer a level of tonal character and structural quality that’s difficult to find in newer instruments at a similar level.

As with every piano in my shop, this instrument has gone through final prep—regulation refinement, voicing, and tuning to A-440—so it performs the way it should.