Rhodes♥Love

Dedicated to the Funk & Soul of the Fender Rhodes

Who am I?

Who Am I?

Just a Fanboy in Love with the Instrument

My name is Zac and I'm obsessed with passionate about the Fender Rhodes. I've been gigging with a 1978 Stage for 25 years, and recently purchased a road worn 1972 Suitcase. Throughout the restoration, my love for the instrument has intensified as I've been putting so much of myself into every step of the process.

I tip my hat to Ken Rich - his expertise and devotion to these instruments is unmatched. With increasing access to parts and information, the art of piano restoration has been overshadowed by an army of hobbyists and DIY'ers like myself. There is no substitute for decades of experience and dedication to the craft. Thank you Ken for taking care of our beloved keys, and for supporting all of the musicians who make music with them.

Wooden Cheek Blocks

From Start to Finish




Since so much of the Rhodes is made of wood - yet we only really see plastic and metal - I wanted to surface some wooden elements to the exterior. I didn't invent the idea, and I'm no master craftsman... I'm just an enthusiast who finds fulfillment in making things.

1. Lumber Yard

I make a trip to my local hardwood supplier and select attractive pieces of wood. Their stock varies.

2. Cut 'em up

Using an original cheek block for reference, I cut to size, and notch the top for name rail placement.

3. Smooth as a Baby's Bottom

Working my way from course to fine, I hand sand all surfaces until super smooth and silky to touch.

4. Apply Finish

Embracing the natural elements of the wood, I use 2 coats of Minwax Tung Oil Finish to make the grain pop and protect the wood.

5. List on Reverb.com

Once completely dry, I photograph and list on reverb.com to find their forever home.



Check my Reverb store for availability

If you'd like a pair of handmade wooden cheek blocks for your piano, please visit my Reverb store to check availability. As I produce new sets, I'll list them there for purchase.

To help me gauge interest, feel free to reach out at info@rhodeslove.com. I'm not able to facilitate special orders at this time, but let me know if you're interested so I can manage production efficiently.

Check Reverb
  • My cheek block designs are not 100% identical to the originals - for example, they do not taper up.
  • To install, you must be able to remove the keybed from the base (it's simple - there are videos online showing how).
  • You will have to screw these in from below with your existing screws.
  • No pilot holes are drilled since precise placement is specific to each piano.
  • All pieces of wood are different and have unique grains and characteristics.
  • These are handmade with love. I assure you that I will not ship anything I wouldn't put in my own piano.
  • Types of wood are subject to availability. Pictured above is cherry.

With every sale, 5 trees will be planted by the National Forest Foundation.