Serial number: 77291. This piano was manufactured by Kemble & Co. in London during 1947. The make has a brilliant history, having established Kemble as a British household name in the early 1900’s and cleverly maintaining its place throughout the wars and for decades after, to the point of becoming associated with Yamaha in the 1980’s.
These are one of our favourite types of pianos in general, with a reputation for being hassle free and reliable. The piano has the typical English brighter tone: well-balanced with a sparkling hint of liveliness.
The JAE 05 Kemble Upright Pianoforte and stool is currently hired out.
This advertisement is from 1939, at the height of WW2. With propaganda posters permeating Europe motivating attitudes and promoting patriotism, Kemble & Co.’s witty perseverance with their marketing is highly commendable!
At the time, musical instruments, especially pianos, were regarded as a priority to have in your household providing reliable entertainment – even in uncertain times.
Proudly British, the company – confident about the reputation of their household name – comically asserts what Germany could not capture. Kemble survived the wars and economic hardships, continuing to flourish over decades keeping up with the current market.
(This cartoon is from the Music Trades Review, October 1939, 316.)