Hi Gang.  I have heard from a "old timer" that in the "old days" many
piano companies contracted cabinet makers to construct piano cases,
especially the "art" cases (which would explain their rarity).  Does
anyone have any information to confirm this?  I was always under the
impression that the piano builders built it themselves.

It seems the earlier the piano, the more elaborate the case was, with
every style imaginable.  (A Schubert piano was the most ornate I have
ever seen.)  Later the run-of-the-mill player looked almost identical
as far as case style was concerned.

Just wondering.

Best Regards
Andy Taylor
Tempola Music Rolls
http://home.swbell.net/tempola/index.htm