The Timeless Craft of Knight Pianos: Restored by Pianos Now
- pianosnowportland
- Jul 11
- 4 min read

If you are searching for an acoustic piano that brings together compact British engineering, smooth tone, and handsome design, consider a restored Knight. Built in England for much of the 20th century, Knight pianos earned a quiet but loyal following for their solid construction and clear, singing voice. When restored with care, a Knight becomes a versatile and character-rich instrument, well suited for home musicians, teachers, and casual players alike.
At Pianos Now, we specialize in restoring quality pre-owned acoustic pianos. Every Knight we offer has been carefully selected and fully rebuilt in house by our team of master technicians. Whether you are adding music to your home for the first time or replacing a long-loved instrument, a Knight piano offers tone, quality, and charm in equal measure.
Click here to browse our available Knight pianos or schedule a consultation with our technician team.
The Knight Piano Story
Knight pianos were produced in England starting in the 1930s, with the company reaching peak popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. These instruments were known for their thoughtful construction and compact yet resonant designs. Unlike many mass-market pianos of the same era, Knight maintained a high level of quality throughout its production. Many of their pianos were built in the company’s London and Essex factories, using local materials and seasoned hardwoods.
What set Knight apart was its commitment to function and sound within a small footprint. Upright models in particular were cleverly designed to deliver a rich voice in a modest-sized case. Their action work and structural design allowed them to compete with larger uprights, making them a favorite among teachers and serious amateurs looking for a reliable practice piano.
Today, vintage Knight pianos are increasingly valued for their distinctive character and impressive longevity. With proper restoration, they continue to serve musicians across the world.
Why Consider a Knight Piano?
If you are not familiar with Knight, you are not alone. Many piano buyers focus on only a handful of well-marketed brands. But Knight pianos have a quiet reputation for exceeding expectations. They may not have been built in high volumes, but they were built with care.
Here are a few reasons why a Knight piano might be right for you:
Compact and efficient design
Many Knight uprights are shorter in height but feature full-scale actions and string lengths comparable to taller models. This makes them ideal for homes where space is limited but musical range is still important.
Balanced and clean tone
Knight pianos are known for their clear, straightforward voice. The tone is neither overly bright nor muted, making them ideal for a wide variety of musical styles and player preferences.
Reliable touch and feel
With proper regulation, Knight’s actions provide consistent response and pleasing weight. They are comfortable for beginners and capable of more advanced dynamic control.
Understated aesthetics
Knight pianos often feature simple, classic cabinet designs in walnut, mahogany, or teak. Their minimalism allows them to blend into almost any home interior.
Sturdy construction
These instruments were designed to last. With quality materials and thoughtful engineering, Knight pianos often outperform expectations for their size and price point.
Our Restoration Approach
At Pianos Now, all restoration is completed in house by a team of experienced technicians. We approach each instrument with the goal of preserving its unique voice while ensuring structural stability and long-term playability. Knight pianos respond particularly well to this approach, as their simple yet elegant design makes them a pleasure to work on.
A typical Knight restoration includes:
Inspection and repair of key structural components, including the soundboard, bridges, and pinblock
Action rebuilding or adjustment using new hammers, felts, and regulation of key travel and balance
Full tuning and pitch correction over multiple sessions for reliable tuning stability
Voicing of hammers to produce an even and musical tone across the full keyboard
Cabinet polishing or refinishing to restore the original appearance and protect the wood
Final play testing and approval to ensure the instrument is ready for delivery
We do not over-restore or modernize these instruments unnecessarily. Each Knight piano is treated with respect for its original design and intended sound.
Why Choose Pianos Now?
At Pianos Now, we are piano technicians and musicians first. We bring decades of hands-on experience to each piano we sell. We believe that every customer deserves a beautiful instrument and an honest conversation.
Here is why our customers trust us:
All restoration is done in house
We do not outsource repairs. Every step of the process is handled by our own technicians who know the piano inside and out.
We offer free nationwide delivery
Whether you live across town or across the country, your piano will be delivered professionally and ready to play.
We are technician-owned
Our founder is a working piano technician who personally oversees every restoration and delivery.
You receive personal support
We provide clear, honest answers about every instrument. We do not push or pressure. Instead, we help you find a piano that meets your needs and your goals.
Popular Knight Models We Restore
While Knight built a range of pianos, the most common and desirable examples are upright models from the mid-20th century. These include:
Knight K10 and K20 Uprights
These compact upright models are admired for their clean design and warm, balanced tone. Their shorter height makes them suitable for smaller rooms, yet they deliver impressive musical performance.
Knight Studio Uprights
Built for teaching studios and serious home players, these models feature slightly taller cabinets, longer strings, and more powerful sound projection.
Occasional Knight Grands
While less common, Knight also produced small grand pianos. These models combine the company’s signature sound with elegant horizontal design and rich tone.
If you are looking for a specific finish, size, or feature, we are happy to help you locate or restore the right Knight piano for your space.
A Piano with Character and Capability
A restored Knight piano is more than a musical instrument. It is a reflection of thoughtful design, solid construction, and quiet excellence. Whether you are playing your first notes or preparing a recital piece, a Knight delivers a rewarding experience without excess or compromise.
At Pianos Now, we are proud to offer restored Knight pianos that are ready to serve a new generation of players. With our technician-led process and personal service, you can be confident that your next piano will be beautifully restored and ready to bring music into your home.
Click here to view our current selection of Knight pianos or request a consultation. Let us help you find an instrument with clarity, charm, and craftsmanship that lasts.


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