Kemble Oxford

The Kemble Oxford is a compact British upright piano known for its quality craftsmanship and warm, clear tone. Standing at 110cm tall, it is ideal for home use, offering a full 88-note keyboard and a responsive touch suitable for both beginners and experienced players. Finished in mahogany satin, this example is presented warmly and suits a range of traditional interiors.

The Oxford features a solid spruce soundboard, three pedals including a practice (celeste) pedal for quiet playing, and a tone that is warm, balanced, and distinctively British. Its compact size makes it well suited to smaller rooms and flats without compromising on sound quality. Priced at £2,995, it is available from our Oxfordshire showroom.

Available to purchase online or to try in person. Contact us to arrange a viewing or to discuss delivery options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Kemble Oxford different from other Kemble models?

The Oxford is one of Kemble's most refined compact upright designs, known for a slightly more polished build quality and tonal character than the entry-level Classic range. It features a solid spruce soundboard, a well-regulated action, and a three-pedal configuration including a practice pedal, features that place it a step above the most basic domestic uprights. For a player who wants a compact piano without compromise, the Oxford is an excellent choice.

Is the Kemble Oxford suitable for an intermediate player?

Yes. The Oxford has enough tonal depth and action quality to serve a player progressing through the grades comfortably. While it will not match the dynamic range of a taller instrument like a Yamaha U1, it is a genuinely capable piano for home practice and learning at intermediate level. Many piano teachers rate the Oxford as one of the better compact British uprights for this purpose.

What is the practice pedal, and is it useful?

The practice pedal, sometimes called a celeste pedal, inserts a strip of felt between the hammers and the strings, significantly reducing the volume of the piano. It is particularly useful for practising in shared homes, flats, or at times when neighbours might be disturbed. It is a practical feature that many home players find genuinely valuable, and not all compact uprights include it.

How does the Kemble Oxford compare to a Yamaha b1 at a similar price?

A Yamaha b1 is a Japanese-made instrument with a brighter, more precisely even tone and a modern aesthetic. The Kemble Oxford has a warmer, more traditional British sound and the character that comes with British craftsmanship. Both are compact uprights at a similar price level and both are well suited to home use. We stock both and are very happy to let you play and compare them in person.

How long will a Kemble Oxford last?

A well-maintained Kemble Oxford should give many more years of reliable service. Kemble built their instruments to a solid domestic standard, and with regular tuning, correct placement away from heat and damp, and occasional regulation, an Oxford can remain a pleasure to play for decades. The solid spruce soundboard is a quality component that contributes to the instrument's long-term tonal stability.