Appraisals

Why Choose Orpheus for Piano Appraisals? 

Many “appraisal” services, particularly online appraisals, are often based upon standard pricing books that do not reflect the actual market value of your property. Orpheus has the training, the education and the experience to accurately value your property. We have the routinely research markets and comparable sales to find appropriate comparable sales for even the most unique items. 

APPRAISAL QUALIFICATIONS

Experience and education are core to providing an exceptional online valuation or detailed appraisal. Our team of experts has more than 100 years of combined appraisal experience in musical instruments and media collections. 

The secret to a suitable valuation lies in market knowledge. Our lead appraiser, Carolyn Albert, has provided valuations and appraisals for private sales, insurance replacement costs, and estate purposes for over a decade. Her extensive knowledge of the new and used piano market allows her to provide accurate valuations based on current market conditions.

Related professional training and memberships include:

  • Piano Technicians Guild, Member, Members Rights Committee, Marketing Committee
  • Professional Piano Technicians Network (ProPTN.org) - Founder, Contributing Author
  • Appraisal Coursework: 
2024-2025 7-Hour USPAP Update for Personal Property, Gems & Jewelry, and Machinery & Technical Specialties
2020-2022 United States Professional Appraisal Practices 15 Hour (American Society of Appraisers)
PP201 Introduction to Personal Property Valuation (American Society of Appraisers)
PP202 Development of a Personal Property Appraisal: Research and Analysis (American Society of Appraisers)
PP203 Communication of a Personal Property Appraisal: Report Writing (American Society of Appraisers)
PP204 Personal Property Valuation: The Legal and Commercial Environments (American Society of Appraisers)

    Our piano buyer previously served as the Vice President of the used Piano Division for Jordan Kitts Music, the area's oldest and largest piano retailer, and has more than three decades of experience in all facets of musical retail markets, including pianos, guitars, media (records, CDs, etc) and stereo equipment. Our buyers for guitars and vintage records have more than four decades of retail purchasing and sales experience.

    Valuations Versus Appraisals

    Often, our clients need sound advice on buying, selling, or repairing a piano and basic information to make an informed choice. This can be accomplished through an online valuation where you provide several specific pictures of your piano. Our team will provide a high and low range of prices based on the condition. This is not a substitute for an appraisal!

    An appraisal can be used for insurance, probate, or tax purposes and requires adherence to industry standards in the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice. It requires a detailed evaluation of the condition and documentation of comparable sales in the local market.

    Please call to schedule an appointment (703) 534-0220.

     "Orpheus came to my home to appraise my 1955 Baldwin baby grand, and I was pleasantly astonished at the depth of knowledge that the man possessed about pianos. Not only was he knowledgeable, but he was prompt, courteous, and extremely helpful. I would highly recommend him to anyone who has any questions about pianos." 

         Renee M