Steinway & Sons: A Legacy of Fine Craftsmanship and Unsurpassed Quality
Since its inception, Steinway & Sons has been the embodiment of musical brilliance, creating the gold standard for sound and craftsmanship in the piano world. Their story, dating back to the mid-19th century, is an inspiring saga of vision, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
The Birth of an Icon
Steinway & Sons was founded in 1853 in New York City by German immigrant Heinrich Engelhard Steinweg, later known as Henry E. Steinway. Before immigrating to the United States, Steinway built pianos in his home country, developing an understanding and passion for the instrument. When the family arrived in America, they brought with them a vision of creating the finest pianos the world had ever known.
A Legacy of Innovation
From the beginning, the Steinway family displayed a propensity for innovation and quality. In their first year, they produced just over 100 pianos, but each one was crafted with impeccable attention to detail. Steinway’s commitment to research and innovation led to over 100 patents, shaping the modern piano and setting new standards in the industry.
One of their most significant innovations is the overstrung scale design, also known as the “Steinway System”. This revolutionary design involves crossing the bass strings over the treble strings in a grand piano, enabling longer bass strings and, thus, richer sound.
International Acclaim
In 1862, Steinway pianos gained international acclaim when they were awarded the prestigious “Grand Gold Medal of Honour” at the London International Exposition, an achievement never before bestowed upon an American manufacturer. This recognition catapulted the Steinway brand to the forefront of the global piano industry.
Growth and Expansion
In 1880, Steinway established a factory in Hamburg, Germany, to meet increasing European demand. Though both factories share the Steinway name, there are subtle differences in design and production techniques that lead some musicians to prefer one over the other.
The Steinway Artists Program
In the 19th century, Steinway began an artist endorsement program, which attracted some of the most famous composers and performers of the time, such as Franz Liszt. Today, over 90% of the world’s performing concert pianists choose the Steinway, contributing to its continued status as a symbol of quality and prestige.
Preserving the Art of Piano Making
Even as the company has embraced the 21st century, Steinway remains committed to the art of handcrafted pianos. Each Steinway grand piano is a product of craftsmanship that takes nearly a full year to complete. From the selection of the finest woods to the meticulous shaping of the soundboard, every detail matters in a Steinway piano.
Conclusion
Over its long history, Steinway & Sons has established itself as a brand synonymous with excellence in piano manufacturing. Their dedication to crafting pianos that provide the most beautiful sound has made them the choice of pianists around the world. Steinway’s enduring legacy is a testament to their ongoing commitment to quality, innovation, and the uncompromising artistry of piano making.
One of our recently restored Steinway & Sons grand pianos.
