There are literally hundreds of very old upright and spinet pianos that are free. As a piano tuner and technician, I sometimes even get paid to take these pianos with me.
Is there anything cool you can do with these old pianos?
Absolutely, there are so many great ways to upcycle these old pianos. Here are some ways I’ve upcycled old pianos.
Idea #1
Digital/analog piano. Take the keys and action assembly off an old riser and replace them with a full-length 88-key keyboard. Next, hide the computer (if you’re using one) and sound system inside the piano cabinet. You can also cut holes in the front and sides to mount a flat screen and speakers. In the end, you have a complete midi music creation setup complete with keyboard, computer, and sound system. Add a wireless mouse and keyboard and you’re good to go.
– It is also better to remove the iron plate and strings to have more interior space and lighten the piano. This is only for the bravest of DIYers, as it’s a bit dangerous and requires some special tools.
Idea #2
Wood recycling. The wood contained in vintage pianos is usually incredible. Many solid parts (not the veneer parts) of the piano can be removed and used for carving and small woodworking projects. A friend of mine makes beautiful knife handles out of the old wood he took from pianos. Antique pianos also contain ivory and ebony. Turn-of-the-century pianos also contain some very nice carvings and filigrees.
Idea #3
Sculpture. Many of the interior pieces and parts of the action, as well as the ebony and ivory keys, are suitable for sculpture. Also, the plate as a sculpture is very interesting and contains a lot of usable iron.
Idea #4
A children’s bed. I once saw an old grand piano turned into a super cool bed. He removed the plate and padding and foam was placed over the soundboard. He took off his lyre and his feet were partially cut off. It looked very beautiful with its curved lines. The lid was left on and secured to the wall overnight (so it wouldn’t fall off). It could even be an adult’s bed if you have a longer piano.