Swanley Kent England

Did You Know Piano Facts

1730

The firm of Kirkman piano makers was founded in 1730, according to the Pierce Piano Atlas. However, Kirkman inherited the business from Tabel's wife, whom he married one month after Tabel's death. Tabel was a harpsichord maker who trained with Ruckers. He came to London in 1680 and set up making harpsichords. Abraham Kirkman, who was born in 1710 inBischweiler near Strasbourg, came to work for Tabel. In 1742 hemoved to Great Pulteney Street. These are some later dates and locations for him:
(1817) (Grand Pianoforte Maker to Her Majesty and H.R.H. The PrinceRegent)
(1818-1832) (Grand Pianoforte Maker to His Majesty) 19 Broad Street,Golden Square
(1822-1896) Kirkman, Joseph (Junior) 67 Frith Street, Soho
(1831) 3 Soho Square
(1846) 9 Dean Street
(1848) DuLour's Place, Golden Square
(1864) 21 Broad Street, Golden Square
(1894) 12A George Street, Hanover Square
They had associates with Collard who were based at 50 Bond Street,London, the same as Chappell. There is a fine example of a Kirkmanharpsichord at the Colt Clavier private collection. In 1896Georgiana Kirkman sold the business to Collard's at cost.