Question 1

How long does a build take?

Accepted Answer

Many of our shells are handcrafted to order based on your selections. Current build times run about 3-4 weeks for The MINI Shell, 3-4 weeks for the Double MINI Shell, and 1-3 weeks for Upright Shells, depending on options and our current queue. We'll confirm your exact timeline after you order.

Question 2

How much does an Upright Piano Shell cost?

Accepted Answer

Our Upright Piano Shells start at $2,500.

This base price includes:

Piano sourcing – we locate and select a suitable upright piano

Transport – includes travel, pickup, and delivery to our workshop

Professional gutting – we remove all heavy internals (harp, strings, keys, etc.)

Leg bracing – fragile front legs are reinforced with custom-built support braces

Keyboard fit & finish – soft felt is laid in the keybed for your keyboard to sit flush, safely, and beautifully

Caster installation – standard builds include 2" locking casters for smooth movement on stage or at home

💡 Upgrades & Customizations

Caster Options: We can install 3" casters, other caster styles, or no casters at all... just let us know. Upgraded caster installs may include an added cost.

Paint Jobs: Want it painted to match your brand or aesthetic? We offer custom paint for a minimum of $500, with final pricing determined based on the color, finish, and complexity of your request.

Piano Cost: If we need to purchase a piano specifically for your build (e.g., from Facebook Marketplace), the cost of that piano is added to the base price.

Each Upright Shell is one-of-a-kind and professionally prepared for both function and presence. Whether it's for the stage, your church, a video shoot, or your home, you're getting a piano shell that looks and feels real because it is.

Question 3

How do I place an order?

Accepted Answer

If your keyboard fits our standard shell dimensions, you can place your order directly through our website. You can choose your options on the product page, see your quote in real time, and check out with either shipping or free local pickup in Nashville.

Have something custom in mind or have questions? No problem. Contact us and we'll walk you through the process and provide a personalized quote.

Question 4

How do I order an Upright Piano Shell?

Accepted Answer

Our Upright Shells are individually gathered and prepared, so they move fast with high demand. If we have one available that fits your vision, you can customize it right on the product page, see your quote in real time, and check out with free local pickup in Nashville.

Need it shipped? Freight shipping isn't available through our website just yet, but we can absolutely coordinate it—just contact us and we'll provide a quote and walk you through the process.

Looking for something custom or have questions? We're happy to help with that too.

Question 5

I need a different size than the standard listed. Can you do that?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We specialize in custom builds tailored to your needs. Whether it's a unique size to fit your keyboard, a specific paint or stain, logo installation, wired cable management or other special requests—we've done it all.

Just reach out with the details of what you're looking for, and we'll provide a quote and walk you through the process. Please contact us to get started.

Question 6

I need a different color. Can you do that?

Accepted Answer

If you need a custom finish beyond our standard options, we offer full access to the Minwax stain and Sherwin-Williams paint libraries.

To select a custom color, choose "Different Color" on the product page while customizing your piano shell. A popup will appear with links to both color guides. Browse their selections, then enter the exact color name or product code in the field provided.

We'll use your selected color as the reference for your shell's finish. If we need to clarify anything, we'll contact you before production begins.

Please note:
Custom colors may add time to your build depending on paint availability, finish complexity, or drying time. If your timeline is affected, we'll keep you updated every step of the way.

Color Disclaimer:
Colors may appear differently on screen than they do in person due to variations in lighting and display settings. For the most accurate match, we recommend visiting a local Sherwin-Williams or Minwax retailer to view physical samples before making your final selection.

Question 7

I need it painted. Can you do that?

Accepted Answer

If you need your Upright Piano Shell painted, we offer full access to the Sherwin-Williams paint library.

To select a custom color when ordering your Upright Piano Shell, choose "Different Color" on the product page. A popup will appear with next steps.

Please note:
Custom colors may add time to your build depending on paint availability, finish complexity, or drying time. If your timeline is affected, we'll keep you updated every step of the way.

Question 8

Can you build a custom piano shell?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we offer fully custom builds. Whether you need specific dimensions, a unique shape, custom paint or stain, logo placement, or something entirely outside the box, we're happy to bring your vision to life.

Just contact us with your ideas and any details you have in mind. We'll provide a quote and talk through the next steps with you.

Question 9

What if I want a different Upright Shell than what is listed?

Accepted Answer

No problem! All of our Upright Shells are made from real pianos, so our inventory is constantly changing and every piece is unique. Not all available shells are always listed on the website.

If you're looking for something specific or want to explore more options, just contact us and we'll be happy to show you what else we might have in the shop. We'll work with you to find a shell that fits your style and space.

Please note: Choosing a different Upright Shell may add time to your order depending on availability, refinishing needs, or custom paint and stain options. We'll communicate the timeline clearly before moving forward.

Question 10

What about Grand Piano Shells?

Accepted Answer

We don't typically offer grand piano shells, as our focus is on upright shells and our MINI Shells. That said, we've gutted a few for special cases and are open to discussing unique projects. If you have something specific in mind, feel free to reach out and tell us about it.

Question 11

How do I choose the right legs for me?

Accepted Answer

The legs for our MINI Shells are modern remakes of the classic Wurlitzer style and are available in two heights: approximately 26" for sitting and 34" for standing.

To choose the best fit, simply measure from the floor up using a tape measure. Your MINI Shell will sit roughly as high off the ground as the legs themselves—so this gives you a good idea of how it will feel in your setup.

Question 12

Will it fit in my car?

Accepted Answer

Our MINI Shells fit easily into most vehicles. You can find exact dimensions on each product page. For example, a single-stack MINI Shell for an 88-key keyboard has fit comfortably in a Honda Civic. The Double MINI Shell is taller but still fits well in most SUV trunks.

Our Upright Shells are larger, but in some cases they can fit in the back of an SUV when laid on their back. We've transported one in a Honda Pilot with two people—proof of both the fit and how lightweight they are.

Please note: This applies to purchased shells only. Rental shells must be transported in their ATA road cases with enclosed transportation, as outlined in the rental agreement.

Question 13

How much do your piano shells weigh?

Accepted Answer

Our Upright Shells vary in weight since each one is unique, but they typically weigh under 200 pounds. One person can easily roll the shell, and two people can lift it comfortably from each end.

Our MINI Shells are much lighter:

Single-keyboard MINI Shell: approximately 45 pounds (including legs)

Double-keyboard MINI Shell: approximately 55 pounds (including legs)

Both MINI models are easy to handle, load, and transport with one person or a small team.

Question 14

How does shipping work?

Accepted Answer

MINI Shells and piano parts are shipped anywhere in the U.S. via UPS, and you'll see your shipping and handling costs during checkout.

Upright Shells are shipped via freight. You can choose delivery to a residence, business, or freight terminal, each with its own pricing. For the most accurate quote, please contact us directly and let us know your location and delivery preference.

International shipping is not available at this time.

Question 15

How do I book a rental?

Accepted Answer

Just reach out and let us know which items you're interested in renting. We'll follow up with a quote by email or phone. Once everything looks good, you'll receive a digital invoice and rental agreement to sign online. From there, all that's left is to mark your calendar for rental day—and try to contain the excitement.

Question 16

How much does it cost to rent a piano shell?

Accepted Answer

Our shell rentals are priced by the day, and the rate flattens out the longer you keep it:

Day 1: $200

2 days: $275

3 days: $350

4 to 7 days: $425

Past a week, the same structure starts over on day 8. Piano benches rent at their own lower rates — $25 for the first day up to $55 for a full week.

Renting for a longer tour? Get in touch. We offer discounted pricing on extended rentals and we'll work it into your quote.

Question 17

Where can I rent?

Accepted Answer

Our rental piano shells are stored at Soundcheck Nashville, where we keep our main inventory. We're happy to meet you there by appointment for pickups, drop-offs, or walkthroughs.

We primarily serve the Greater Nashville Area, but if you're outside the region and need a rental shipped, we can arrange freight transportation both ways. Round-trip freight typically costs over $1,000, depending on your location.

Question 18

How far in advance should I book a rental?

Accepted Answer

We do accept same-week rentals when inventory allows. That said, availability can fill up quickly—especially around major events or busy seasons—so the earlier you reach out, the better.

Question 19

Can you drop it off and pick it up?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer cartage within the Greater Nashville area for an additional charge, based on availability. If you need pickup or delivery, just let us know your location and we'll follow up with availability and a quote.

Question 20

How do rental shells travel?

Accepted Answer

All of our Rental Shells come with an ATA-rated road case, which must be used during transport. We also require enclosed transportation (such as a van, trailer, or box truck) to ensure the shell is protected in transit.

You can find the road case dimensions listed in the product information section for each rental.

If you arrive for pickup without proper transportation as outlined in your rental agreement, you will not be allowed to take the shell, and the full rental fee will still apply.

Question 21

Will my keyboard fit this rental?

Accepted Answer

Click any of our rental piano shells and the max keyboard size is listed in the specifications.

Our Upright Shells are each unique and made from real pianos, so max keyboard size that fits each one varies. You are ultimately responsible for confirming your keyboard will fit.

Question 22

How much do rental piano shells weigh?

Accepted Answer

Our Rental Upright Shells typically weigh under 200 pounds, just like our standard upright shells. One person can easily roll the shell, and two people can lift it from each end without issue.

However, all rental shells are transported in heavy-duty ATA road cases, which significantly increase the total weight. While the shell itself is manageable, the case adds size and weight, so plan to have two people and a vehicle with ramp or lift access for safe loading and unloading.

Our MINI Shell rentals are lighter:

Single-stack MINI Shell in case: approximately 60-80 pounds

The shells themselves are light and easy to handle, but the case is required and adds protection—and bulk—for safe transport.

Question 23

What about renting Grand Piano Shells?

Accepted Answer

We do not offer grand piano shells as rentals at this time.

Question 24

Do you require a security deposit for rentals?

Accepted Answer

We don't require a security deposit. However, as outlined in our rental agreement, renters are fully responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period.

Question 25

What happens if a rental shell is damaged?

Accepted Answer

If a shell is damaged during your rental, The Piano Shell Company will assess the issue and determine the necessary repairs. You'll be responsible for the cost of repairs, including parts and labor. If the shell is deemed irreparable, you'll be responsible for the full replacement value as if it were a new purchase.

Question 26

Can I extend my rental if I need more time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as long as the extension doesn't conflict with another scheduled rental. Just reach out, and we'll adjust your invoice accordingly.

Question 27

When does the rental period start and end?

Accepted Answer

We aim to keep things flexible. Your rental begins and ends based on the times agreed upon in your signed contract. We'll work with you to make sure the schedule fits your needs.

Question 28

What is your cancellation policy for rentals?

Accepted Answer

We're happy to send you a sample rental agreement that includes full details on our cancellation policy. Just contact us and we'll walk you through it.

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