Kemble

This Kemble is a compact 106cm British upright piano from the last great volume piano maker in Britain. Kemble was founded in London in 1911 and built pianos in this country for close to a century, latterly in partnership with Yamaha, whose influence brought Japanese action engineering into a British-made cabinet. That combination is exactly why used Kembles remain one of the most sought after choices in their price bracket.

At £2,295 this example stands 106cm tall in a cabinet 130cm wide and 47cm deep, which is compact enough for a modern sitting room without feeling like a token instrument. It suits families, learners, and adult players who want a dependable British piano with a warm, even tone. This instrument has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery.

Available to purchase online or to try in person at our Oxfordshire showroom. Contact us to arrange a viewing or to discuss delivery and part-exchange options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Kemble pianos good?

Kemble has an excellent reputation and is widely regarded as the finest British piano maker of the modern era. The company built in Britain from 1911 until the end of UK production, and its later instruments benefited from a working partnership with Yamaha. Used Kembles hold their appeal because they combine British cabinetmaking with proven action design.

What is the connection between Kemble and Yamaha?

Yamaha and Kemble worked closely together for many years, and Kemble's British factory built instruments for both names. The practical result for a buyer is that a later Kemble tends to have an action and touch closer to a Yamaha than to a traditional older English upright, while keeping Kemble's warmer voicing.

Is a 106cm upright big enough?

For home practice and lessons, yes. A compact upright has shorter strings than a full-sized instrument, so the bass is less powerful, but the touch and control are the same acoustic experience that a keyboard cannot replicate. If you are an advanced player wanting maximum tone, we can show you taller uprights alongside this one.

Would this suit a beginner or a returning player?

It suits both particularly well. Kembles are known for an even, forgiving touch that makes early progress feel achievable, and enough tonal warmth to stay enjoyable once a player is well past the beginner stage.

How much space and maintenance does it need?

Allow around 1.3 metres of wall for the 130cm cabinet, plus room in front for the stool and player, and keep it away from radiators, external walls, and damp. Tune it twice a year in normal use, and expect to tune it once more shortly after delivery as it settles into your home.