Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Piano Sales & Restoration in Charlottesville
Since 1907, Charlottesville Piano has been a family-owned business dedicated to excellence in piano sales, restoration, and services. With three generations of expertise, we specialize in restoring vintage Steinway & Sons, Mason & Hamlin, and other fine grand pianos, combining century-old craftsmanship with modern techniques. Our Charlottesville, Virginia showroom features new, like-new, and restored pianos from renowned manufacturers, including Yamaha, Kawai, and Steinway & Sons.We offer comprehensive services such as piano moving, tuning, appraisals, and repairs, all backed by free delivery, a warranty, and a 100% trade-up guarantee for five years. Our team, led by master rebuilder Tom Shaw, brings over a century of combined experience, ensuring every instrument meets the highest standards of quality and performance. We pride ourselves on personalized service, treating every clients piano journey with the care and attention it deserves.
Services
Piano Sales
Restoration
Moving
Tuning
Appraisals
Details
- Year established: 1907
Highlights and features
- We offer over 118 years of experience in piano restoration and sales.
- Our team includes third-generation master rebuilder Tom Shaw.
- We provide free delivery, one free in-home tuning, and a 5-year warranty.
- We specialize in restoring vintage Steinway & Sons and Mason & Hamlin pianos.
- Our services include local, regional, and national piano moving with insured rates.
Services
Piano Restoration
We specialize in restoring vintage Steinway & Sons and Mason & Hamlin grand pianos to their original glory. Our process includes replacing soundboards, restringing, and hand-rubbed finishes. Each restoration preserves historical integrity while enhancing sound quality and durability for modern use.
Piano Sales
Our showroom features new, like-new, and restored pianos from top brands like Yamaha, Kawai, and Steinway & Sons. We offer upright, grand, and digital pianos for all skill levels, from beginners to professionals, with competitive pricing and trade-up options.
Piano Moving
We provide insured local, regional, and national piano moving services. Our team uses specialized equipment to ensure safe transport, with rates starting at $399 and additional fees for stairs, distance, or complex logistics.
Tuning Services
Our expert technicians offer precise piano tuning to maintain optimal sound quality. Regular tuning addresses humidity changes and playing wear, ensuring your piano stays in perfect pitch for practice, performance, or family enjoyment.
Piano Appraisals
We provide detailed piano appraisals for insurance, sale, or donation purposes. Our certified appraisers inspect instruments in-person or virtually, delivering comprehensive reports and official certificates to determine accurate market value.
People
Tom Shaw
Manager of Piano Restorations
Third-generation piano rebuilder with over 50 years of experience. Specializes in Steinway restorations and brings direct-lineage craftsmanship to every project, earning an international clientele.
Josh Dove
CEO | President
Third-generation piano and organ dealer with expertise in business leadership and client relations. Acquired Charlottesville Piano Company in 2020 to continue its legacy under the Whitesel brand.
Questions
Should I keep my piano on an inside wall?
Modern homes allow placement on outside walls if insulated. Avoid direct sunlight and vents. Prioritize enjoyment over strict rules.
Why should I tune my piano regularly?
Tuning maintains sound quality, prevents damage, and supports ear training. Environmental changes and playing affect tuning stability.
How often should I have my piano tuned?
Tune at least once a year, preferably twice. Frequent use or climate changes may require more frequent visits.
What is the ideal humidity for my piano?
Maintain 40-50% humidity and 68°F. Install a Dampp-Chaser System to protect against environmental fluctuations.
Should I restore my old upright piano?
Restoration is recommended for heirlooms. Most vintage uprights lack value unless they are Steinway, Bosendorfer, or Schulze Pollmann models.
Does Whitesel offer piano appraisals?
Yes, we provide in-person or virtual appraisals for $85, including detailed reports and official certificates.
