New here, mostly observing.  Andy Taylor does not say whether he has a
VHS, VHS-C, of 8 mm camcorder.  There are of course quality differences
among these and among models in the same line.  I would suggest:

1.  Borrow another camcorder and see if the result is the same.

2.  Move as far away from the piano as possible and use zoom to frame
the piano and reduce the sound level at the microphone due to the
distance.

3.  Experiment with materials (handkerchief, foam, etc.) over the
microphone to reduce levels only, not affecting the overall flavor of
the sound.


Only if none of these works would I recommend renting equipment, unless
of course you can find a broadcast-quality betamax unit for a
reasonable figure.

Good luck.

Henry Holifield