Music lovers have the chance to own a renowned Steinway piano almost free of charge while an arts and education centre undergoes a year-long refurbishment.

Lauderdale House in Waterlow Park, Highgate, needs to find a reliable temporary home for its 6ft Model B grand piano, which can be worth more than £76,000 when new.

The instrument was used for recitals and concerts in the 16th-century mansion’s lower gallery before the house closed earlier this month to allow a £2.3million transformation to take place. The house is due to re-open by next Autumn.

Director Katherine Ives said: “We could have put it into storage but pianos are better played as they have a life of their own, so if we can find a good home for it, it would nice to give pleasure to somebody rather than it sitting in storage for a year.”

The instrument is thought to have been built in 1929, and has been played on by renowned pianists from the classical and jazz worlds. The house is also looking to permanently give away its upright Witton&Co piano, which would be ideal for a beginner. It has been in storage for 10 years but is in fair condition.

Whomever takes the pianos will need to cover the cost of transport from Lauderdale House. Ms Ives is also asking for a donation from the person who takes the Steinway.