A piano used by John Lennon to compose some of The Beatles’ most iconic songs has become the most expensive piece of band memorabilia ever sold.
Record-Breaking Sale
Lennon composed songs such as “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds,” “A Day In The Life,” and “Being For The Benefit Of Mr Kite!” on the Broadwood upright piano. These songs appeared on the band’s 1967 album, Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. The piano sold for nearly $3.3m (£2.5m) at Christie’s Recent York auction house, exceeding its estimated value of $400,000 to $600,000.
The piano was part of The Jim Irsay Collection: Hall of Fame auction, which also featured a drum kit used by Sir Ringo Starr, along with other music, film and sports memorabilia.
Beatles’ Legacy and Auction Highlights
The Beatles, comprised of Lennon, Sir Ringo Starr, Sir Paul McCartney, and George Harrison, transformed pop music in the 1960s and became the best-selling musical act of all time.
Sir Ringo Starr’s first Ludwig drum kit, used between May 1963 and February 1964, sold for nearly $2.4m (£1.8m). A drum head from his second Ludwig kit briefly surpassed the piano’s sale price, fetching $2.9m (£2.2m). This drum head was used during the band’s first visit to America and their performance on The Ed Sullivan Demonstrate in 1964, becoming the most expensive item of Sir Ringo’s to be sold.
The auction also included Beatles photographs, handwritten letters, signed postcards from Lennon, and an affidavit filed by Sir Paul McCartney regarding the band’s breakup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What songs did John Lennon write on the piano?
John Lennon used the piano to write songs such as “Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds,” “A Day In The Life,” and “Being For The Benefit Of Mr Kite!”
How much did Sir Ringo Starr’s drum kit sell for?
Sir Ringo Starr’s first Ludwig drum kit sold for nearly $2.4m (£1.8m).
When did The Beatles first perform in America?
The Beatles first performed in America in 1964, appearing on The Ed Sullivan Show.
Will interest in Beatles memorabilia continue to drive high prices at auction?