If you have a piano that you no longer want, you’re not alone. In fact, I work with many clients who face the dilemma: what to do with that old piano. There are many reasons people no longer want their pianos. For example, they downsize and can’t fit it into their new home, and the upkeep may be too expensive. Besides, we now have the option of more recent technology. People tend to prefer digital keyboards with headsets in apartment and condo complexes. If you no longer want your piano, but you want to avoid sending it to the landfill (and please do!), there are a few things to consider.

The Keys to a Good Decision

Firstly, to make a good decision about the piano’s future, determine its condition and fair market value. Hire a piano technician to inspect it. Some technicians might even be able to give you helpful information by phone if you know its brand and age and the last time you had it tuned.

The technician should be able to give you an approximate value. They can also advise you on the piano’s potential uses based on its current condition. Some of them are not good enough for experienced musicians or large venues (e.g., community centres), but they would be fine for a beginner or smaller home. If the technician says it still has some value, here are some options.

Sell It

Many high-end brands are valuable, so it’s essential to do your research. Piano technicians can provide an appraisal if you want to sell it privately using classified ads. You might also consider selling it on consignment or through a local dealer who sells used pianos.

Donate It

I’ve had random conversations with people who said they would take a piano if one were offered. Talk to anyone who has kids taking (or will possibly be taking) lessons. You may be delightfully surprised! Likewise, piano dealers and music teachers may be able to find a new home for your piano with a family who can’t afford to buy one.

Various groups might be interested in a donation of a good working piano. Ask at your local schools, daycare centres, social clubs, senior centres, retirement homes, or recreation centres. Don’t get discouraged if they turn down your offer. Pianos require tuning and repairs that might be beyond the budget of nonprofit agencies.

Recycle and Upcycle

If your piano needs extensive or expensive repairs, it won’t be easy to donate or give away. Even beginners need one that works and can hold a tune. The lifespan of an average piano is about 50-100 years. If yours is old and needs lots of work, prepare yourself for the disharmonious truth that your piano may not be worth donating.

However, if you are willing to put a bit of work in, you might be able to avoid sending your piano to the landfill. Piano repair technicians may be looking for ivory keys and other hard-to-find components to restore older ones. They might be willing to take your old one for parts – especially vintage brand-name pianos. Sometimes the piano’s innards are beyond salvaging. But the cabinet, especially those of older pianos (mahogany, beech, and cherry woods), can be reconstructed into beautiful furniture. Check out this video to watch The Rainbow Guys convert a $12 piano into a plant shelf. An internet search for “upcycle old piano” will reveal some fantastic transformations – into liquor cabinets, shelving units, desks, media centres, and workbenches. But you will have to do some research in your area, and that will take time – perhaps more time than you have.

Consider offering your piano on Freecycle or neighbourhood Buy Nothing groups to see if any artisans are willing to pick it up and upcycle it.

One Sour Note

Regardless of where your piano is going, you will likely pay for its removal from your home. If you’re donating your piano, hire a company that specializes in moving them. They can do the job without damaging your home or the piano.

If you decide to send your piano to the landfill, contact your local municipality to see if they offer curbside pickup for large items. Otherwise, a removal company will be able to take your piano away for you.

If you know organizations that accept pianos, please send us a note, and we’ll include them on our list of Where to Sell or Donate Items. If you’re moving, be sure to check out our move management services or book an appointment.

Image by Karolina Grabowska on Kaboompics.