King George IV’s Grand Piano Plays Again at Brighton’s Royal Pavilion After 170 Years

For the first time in approximately 170 years, King George IV’s grand piano will be played at Brighton’s Royal Pavilion. The historic instrument will return to its musical origins, offering a rare glimpse into the opulence of the Regency era.

A Royal Instrument’s Journey Through Time

The six-octave grand piano, built by Thomas Tomkinson in 1821, was once a centerpiece of the Royal Pavilion. However, it is believed that Queen Victoria removed the piano during her reign in the mid-19th century, after which it passed into private ownership. The piano resurfaced in an auction in 2017, where it was purchased by Brighton & Hove City Council and returned to its original home.

Now restored to its former glory, the piano is ready to be heard once more. Brighton & Hove Museums (BHM) has overseen the meticulous restoration process, ensuring the instrument’s authenticity and functionality. Pianist Matthew Fletcher will bring the piano back to life with a performance at the Royal Pavilion.

A Connection to Musical Legends

The piano, made of rosewood with gilt detailing, has a brass plate reading “Thomas Tomkinson, Maker to His Majesty” and features a hidden inscription on the bottom key stating “For the King.” This grand piano is more than just a royal relic. Throughout its history, it has been played by renowned figures such as Italian composer Gioachino Rossini and Hungarian virtuoso Franz Liszt, linking the instrument to some of the most influential musicians of the 19th century.

The Piano’s Restoration: A Labor of Love

The restoration of the piano required careful attention to reverse modifications made by previous owners. Led by restorer Jean Maurer, the work aimed to recreate the instrument’s original sound. One significant task involved reconfiguring the keys to ensure each now strikes three strings, as originally designed. Before this, according to tuner Cesar Hernandez, the piano had been in a deteriorated state.

The restoration efforts culminate in Thursday evening’s performance, where Fletcher, of the Glyndebourne Festival Opera, will perform for patrons of the museum.

Returning to Its Rightful Place

The grand piano now occupies its original position in the Music Room Gallery of the Royal Pavilion, thanks to detailed historical references. Museum staff consulted an 1826 aquatint print by John Nash, as well as earlier drawings by August Charles Pugin, to ensure accuracy in its placement.

Hedley Swain, CEO of BHM, expressed the importance of this restoration: “This piano is a crucial piece of our understanding of the Regency era. Restoring it to its original condition and returning it to its rightful place within the Pavilion is an honor.”

King George IV’s Legacy

King George IV, who was Prince Regent from 1811 and King from 1820 until his death in 1830, was known for his love of music and the arts. The return of his piano to the Royal Pavilion is a fitting tribute to his cultural contributions and adds a new chapter to the history of the Pavilion.