--- Maggie Harrer <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> Actually, a piano will decline UNLESS it is played.  The action of the keys
> and the working of the inner parts requires use.

Exactly. Steinways are meant to be played and one that is close to 100 years
old should be fine to play if it has been restored properly. Call the local
Steinway rep or piano refinsher to ask how you can keep it in top playing
condition. I used to work at a piano store in HS and we routinely sold 100+
year-old instruments that played beautfully. Musicians will be excited to play
on such as instrument as they just aren't made like that any more.

As for other instruments, I know many museums that have instrument collections
and use them for concerts (National Museum of American History for one). Just
think of all the violinists out there playing Stradivariuses (sorry about the
hideously mangled spelling :). Matt Malloy of the Chieftans plays a 100
year-old Irish flute and heck, my oboe is pushing 50.

Deb

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