So the time has come to say goodbye to your old piano. Whether you are upgrading, moving house, or you simply have to part with it, here are some suggestions on how to find it a new home.

If the piano is in good working order, consider donating it or selling it to…

A young beginning piano student

Many parents don’t know where to start there search and an affordable, new-to-them piano would be welcome.

A school

Schools do not always have the funds to replace worn instruments. Reach out to your local public school music teacher to see if they can use it. If not, they may be able to direct you to someone who would appreciate it.

A church

Your local small church is another place that might not always have the funds to replace worn instruments. If the director of music doesn’t have a need, they may be able to direct you to someone in need.

Your favorite charitable organization

Charitable organizations can resell your piano to further support their cause. Some even have volunteers who can come and pick it up from your house.

A local small business

Want to encourage interest in music outside of school or private lessons? A local business with a sheltered exterior area can have the piano placed so that passersby can easily see and play it. Want to make it a community affair? Invite local art students or children to paint it in bright colors. Be sure to include a “play me” sign.

If your piano isn’t playable, consider donating it to one of these…

A school piano class

Students can use it to see the inside of a piano, how it is made, and possibly even begin to learn how to repair or rebuild it.

A school art program

Students can use it to create art, whether it be painting the entire structure, or turning it into something else entirely.

A photography studio

All portrait studios need and use props. Most do not have musical props available for their clients.

Large Item Pickup

When all else fails, sometimes the only place left to take a piano is your local trash collection. Be sure to contact your service in advance to find out whether or not they will accept it for large item pickup.