Whilst doing my apprentiship in Stringed musical instrument repair and restoration in the 1970's, a customer gave our workshops an old Delveau double action that was in pieces in several boxes. Being the workshop junior, it fell to me to clean all the bits and learn how to put it all together. This was well before the internet so the research involved several trips to the local library and I've been facinated in the subject ever since.

I'm now retired after a career as an Acoustic Engneer and can now spend the time and resources restoring instruments that are damaged beyond commercial economic repair. I would rather do that than break them down for spares.

I have 4 instruments on the go at the moment; 2 Erard double actions Nos. 1731 & 3364. an Erard Single action No. 743 and an Erat Double action 1820.

I'll be more than happy to share my experiences on the instruments hardware and construction renovation and would like to get other members thoughts on aspects of restoration such as if to laquer cleaned brassware or leave it natural.