Candace Evans

Candace Evans HBJ

Midwesterner Candace Evans has been performing as a pianist and a vocalist throughout the Kansas City area for more than 15 years and has recorded and released two albums featuring her vast musical range. Her most recent release, “So Nice,” features collaborations with many of Ms. Evans’ peers within the Midwest music scene and is a testament to her musical versatility and her exceptional talent. Candace Evans lives in Overland Park, Kansas, and in her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband, Michael John Mally, and daughter Kristin, both of whom are among her most dedicated fans and supporters.

What is your hobby?

It’s not something I get to do often, but I am very passionate about restoring antique pianos and Michael J Mally, my husband, loves to see the end results.

How did you get started with this hobby? What inspired you?

It really began when I saw this beautiful piano that had just been worn down with age but still had some life left in it. I wanted to see it brought back to its original luster.

Tell us what you love about it.

It can be a very lengthy process and it often requires a bit of detective work in order to find authentic parts to use in the restoration. Playing the fully restored piano and seeing others want to sit down to play it as well is more rewarding than I could have ever imagined.

Are there any groups you’re a part of or events that you attend related to your hobby?

There are not too many piano-specific antique restoration enthusiasts in the area, but I do consult a few of the general restoration experts in the area when I need advice or guidance.

Have you had to invest in equipment and if so, please share some of the things you’ve bought.

I’m always looking for spare piano parts and I often find myself buying antique parts for pianos I don’t even have just because the parts can be so rare and I don’t want to kick myself later if it ends up being a part I need for a future restoration.

Where do you buy most of your supplies?

I have to buy most of my supplies from individual sellers just because it is such a specialized hobby.

Are there any good books for beginners?

Any book on general piano tuning and repair is a good place to start. That will help build a foundation upon which someone interested in piano restoration can build.

How has this changed your life?

It’s reminded me how important it is to stay in touch with history and to preserve those parts of history that might otherwise fade away.

What advice do you have for others starting out with this hobby?

Make sure you understand how much patience this hobby requires. There have been times in which I had to wait several months just to find the specific and authentic part I needed to complete a project.

Are there any other hobbies you have?

I really enjoy playing tennis and golf with my husband, Michael Mally.