A grand is a room. It goes out of tune with every jump in climate, and it warps the wood when the heating bakes it from one side. In the overview Security for collectors it is the largest object this world still takes seriously. Carrying it off in one night is rare. Spoiling in winter is the rule if it stands against the wrong wall.

What breaks without a thief

Dryness, damp, direct sun, a window that drafts onto the lid. You do not put it against the cold outside wall, and not over the heating. You have it tuned on a rhythm the condition sets, not only when a key sticks.

When someone comes

The instrument stays. Sheet music can be taken along. A small signature on the lid is no reason to leave the lid open toward the street. The apartment door secures the grand. Very valuable instruments need a policy that names the piece, and a photo of the number in the cast frame.

The folder

Maker, number, year, proof, last major work. You photograph the number once, while you can still find it.