How to assemble a Rhodes piano from scratch in 5 minutes

The Rhodes Electric Piano is quite possibly the most groovalicious instrument ever created. It's also surprisingly easy & fun to work on. I made this video to remind myself in what order to put all the pieces back together.

Invented by piano teacher Harold Rhodes in the 1940s-50s, the Rhodes piano was originally meant for injured WWII soldiers to play while lying in their hospital beds. More than half a century later, it's one of the most recognizable and beloved keyboard instruments. However, like many great old (heavy) instruments, the digital age has made it an endangered species. I hope this video helps some of you rescue an injured old Rhodes or two.

The song is "Bring Back Cynthia Centipede," a tune I wrote about trying to bring back old days long gone. It is also literally about a centipede whom I rescued and nursed back to health in the summer of 2005. Except for drums & vocals, every sound you hear is a Rhodes (the same one I put together in the video). The "guitar" at the end is the piano fed through a 12-watt Esteban G-10 amplifier which cost me $5 at a garage sale.

A Rhodes or Fender Rhodes piano itself can run you anywhere from around $200 to $2000, depending on its condition and where you live. They are in great demand in Europe. Ebay average price is around $500-700 for a Mark I Stage like this with all its parts.

If you're buying one, the main thing to check is if all the 73 tines (thin metal rods that vibrate & produce sound) are there. They can run you $20-40 EACH.

So now get out there, rescue a Rhodes, rescue a centipede and rock on.
Latex gloves optional.

Видео How to assemble a Rhodes piano from scratch in 5 minutes канала Channel Subzero