Sykes & Sons

We are very proud to offer this fine upright piano by the highly respected British manufacturer Welmar. Established in 1925 by Whelpdale, Maxwell & Codd Ltd. (WMC), Welmar quickly became renowned for producing pianos of exceptional build quality, stability, and musical refinement.

 

WMC were originally the UK’s sole agents for the celebrated German maker Blüthner, and through this close working relationship, they developed a deep understanding of Blüthner’s tonal philosophy and construction methods, many of which were thoughtfully incorporated into the design of Welmar pianos.

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Welmar did not simply borrow the visual language of Blüthner. Their makers worked to emulate the musical outcome too, studying soundboard structure, bridge design, and string layout in order to achieve a rich, resonant and balanced tone in a British-built instrument. The lightly ribbed soundboards were modelled on those found in Blüthner pianos, and key elements such as the bass bridge design were replicated with great care, supporting the clarity and warmth for which the best Welmars are known.

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Welmar pianos have long formed an integral part of our stock and have always been appreciated by those who value refinement, particularly when playing for oneself or for intimate audiences. They remain among our most sought-after instruments, and demand for our reconditioned Welmars continues to grow.

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The piano offered here is a Welmar A2, Welmar’s most successful domestic model. With a full 88-note keyboard and a responsive action, the A2 earned its reputation by offering a level of musical control and expression that belied its modest proportions, coupled with the delicacy and clarity of tone that is characteristic of the brand.

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This example dates from what we consider to be Welmar’s most coherent period, before later economic pressures began to influence construction decisions across much of British manufacturing. It is this era that we choose to work with, because it best represents Welmar’s intended balance of touch, tone, and long-term stability.

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Our approach to preparation is guided first and foremost by respect for the original maker’s intent. Each instrument is treated individually, with careful attention paid to the internal relationships that govern control and musical response, including geometry, regulation, and voicing. Where appropriate, subtle refinements are made to bring these relationships into better alignment, not to modernise the piano, but to unlock a depth of responsiveness and expressiveness that was always waiting to be revealed. The aim is always the same: to restore clarity, balance, and musical coherence in a way that allows the instrument to speak in its own voice.

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The cabinet is finished in a restrained satin mahogany, a choice that complements the proportions of the instrument and allows the natural character of the veneer to remain visible. Considerable care has been taken to preserve and restore the original finish, bringing back depth and warmth without obscuring the inherent variation of the timber.

 

In keeping with original practice, this Welmar has been finished with the correct royal blue felt, a colour affectionately known within the trade as ‘Blüthner Blue’, reflecting the shared heritage that sits quietly behind the Welmar name.

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After comprehensive preparation and servicing in our workshop, this Welmar A2 once again offers a balanced, responsive touch coupled with the clarity and delicacy of tone for which the brand is so well regarded. As with all our pianos, it is supplied complete with a brand new adjustable stool, free UK delivery, and the Sykes & Sons Guarantee.​

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