About Bill Miller
The story of a 3rd generation piano craftsman
Bill Miller is a third-generation craftsman. He was taught about piano restoration by his father, who learned from his father, who came to America after learning and applying his trade in Germany. Bill's grandfather began working for Steinway New York⢠upon his arrival in the United States.
In the 1930s, his grandfather and family relocated to Kansas City, MO, where his grandfather became the shop foreman for the Jenkins Music Company. Bill's father and uncle had begun in the business as soon as they were old enough to tighten screws. In the 1940s, Bill's father was transferred to Tulsa to head the repair department of Jenkins Music. Bill and his brother, who were born in Tulsa, started as their father did, tightening screws for their dad.
By the age of 9, Bill was able to tear down and reassemble a piano by himself. He continued working and training with his father until his graduation from high school.
Bill in the military
Upon graduation from Central High School in Tulsa, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He served as a Navy Seal during the Korean Conflict. He was awarded the Purple Heart for his involvement in that conflict. He was injured in Korea and was told he would probably never walk again, but Bill was determined and worked diligently on his rehabilitation. He was returned to active duty when he was able to jump 20" straight up. When he returned to the States after his Honorable Discharge, he started his own business.
Bill Miller Piano Warehouse is founded
W.K. Piano Shop was established at that time. Years later, after 32 years of marriage, he lost his business, including several facilities, and most of its assets in a divorce. Still wanting to pursue his love of the piano business, he started Bill Miller dba Bill Miller Piano in 1987. At that time, he worked from garages and storage facilities.
He remarried in 1996. Bill and his wife, Kathy, opened a small workshop and showroom combined in Broken Arrow. There was another setback in the summer of 1999 when a car ran into the showroom destroying several prized pianos. The owner of the building decided against repairing the building. It was sold and Bill and Kathy were forced to look for a new showroom and repair facility.
They now have a 7,000-square-foot repair facility in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Bill has a special love for the older pianos made of real wood with wood finishes. His specialty is rebuilding older pianos and restoring them to their original state.
Bill and Kathy now work together in the repair facility. There is very little overhead; consequently, they are able to keep prices down. Those savings are being passed on to our customers.
Whether you're looking for a brand new piece, an antique, piano moving or tuning, Bill Miller has you covered.
Click here to contact us, or give us a call at 918.299.8863 today to find out what we can do for you.
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Bill Miller Piano Warehouse Tulsa, OK Phone: 918.299.8863 Fax: 918.835.2600 bill@billmillerpiano.net |
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