The Baldwin model R is a true grand piano at 5’8” that will fit in many homes and venues. The model R Baldwins, including this piano, are built with the most premium piano components of the Baldwin piano line and are described as an artist’s piano. In contrast, other 5’8” Baldwins and some grands of the era were built with less precise and less durable components. They were not made to withstand the performance and practice stressors as well as this conservatory and performance model. Many people find the playability and sound of this piano comparable to a Steinway of the same era, yet more affordable and a much better price value. Many of the most well-known pop, classical, and jazz recordings of the biggest record labels were recorded on Baldwins. They are a true performance piano and of excellent quality among piano manufacturers.

For those who haven’t owned many instruments, it’s important to consider that each piano is hand built and has peculiarities to the instrument. This piano has swift, weighted keys that are well balanced. There’s no unusual clicking nor clunky sounds in the action. The keys bounce back for fast repetition. The harmonics are exciting and well balanced. And this particular piano holds its tuning very well.

My Baldwin has been well cared for with regular tunings and piano maintenance, and I’ve had the instrument in my humidity controlled home for about 10 years. The wood finish is a rich walnut tone that complements the brass components. Two separate piano technicians have complemented the instrument’s playability, tuning, and sound as being excellent.


I am a classically trained pianist who also sings. I used this piano for playing a broad variety of music including Beethoven, Chopin, and Billy Joel, among many other writers and composers. This piano complements vocals quite well with a centered, ringing pitch in the high registers that resonates with the voice. And the playability can handle an eclectic and athletic style of classical pieces, jazz improvisations, and even the playfulness of pop music This piano can create a large sound for classic rock as well. I’ve been very happy with the variety that this piano can handle. And many people complement the tone of the instrument as well as the attractive presence of this grand in the house.

The reason that I’m selling this instrument is that I now have a much larger Baldwin grand piano.

A piano move for this size grand is about $350 in the Chicago area (one or two steps included) and tuning after a move will be about $150 ish. Baldwins generally hold onto their value over the years because of their outstanding, solid build, and excellent sound quality. This is a 1965 build and the serial code is R171648. Some of these Baldwins, even older, are selling for much more — $8000+. Feel free to do a nation-wide search and see what you come up with. I believe one of the benefits of an older instrument is that the problems (or lack thereof) have already settled out! And this piano is doing well.

Please call, text, email, or chat to be in touch. I can demonstrate my piano for people who are buying a piano for their kids or somebody else. I welcome and encourage a visit to my house to try out the piano.