Steinway and Sons Piano

1853

Where it all began.

The story of Steinway & Sons began in 1853 when German immigrant Heinrich Engelhard Steinway founded the company in New York City. Heinrich had already established himself as a skilled piano maker in Germany before venturing to the United States. His vision was to build pianos of exceptional quality that would push the boundaries of musical expression. The early years were challenging for the company as it faced intense competition from established European piano manufacturers. However, Heinrich’s determination and relentless pursuit of perfection paid off. In 1857, Steinway & Sons received its first major recognition when it won a gold medal at the American Institute Fair in New York. This accolade established the brand’s reputation for superior craftsmanship.

1872

Exceptional Quality.

Steinway pianos quickly gained popularity among musicians and institutions alike. Their distinctive sound, responsiveness, and durability made them the instrument of choice for countless pianists, including world-renowned virtuosos such as Sergei Rachmaninoff and Vladimir Horowitz. One of the key factors that set Steinway pianos apart was the company’s commitment to innovation. In 1872, Heinrich’s sons, Henry and William Steinway, introduced several ground-breaking advancements in piano design. They developed the overstrung scale, which allowed for longer strings and a richer, more resonant sound. The company also introduced a revolutionary iron frame that provided greater stability and allowed for higher string tension, further enhancing the instrument’s tonal quality.

1880

Expert Craftsmanship.

Steinway & Sons continued to expand its operations, opening a factory in Hamburg, Germany, in 1880. The Hamburg factory soon gained recognition for producing pianos of exceptional quality, rivalling the New York factory. Today, the distinction between pianos made in New York and Hamburg remains, with musicians often having personal preferences for one or the other.

1956

Prestige.

Over the years, Steinway & Sons has received numerous accolades and honours, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry. In 1956, the company celebrated the production of its 300,000th piano. Steinway pianos have been selected for prestigious venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall, the White House, and the Royal Albert Hall. Despite changes in ownership and economic challenges throughout its history, Steinway & Sons has remained committed to preserving its legacy of craftsmanship and innovation. Each piano is still meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who dedicate countless hours to shaping, voicing, and regulating the instrument.

Embracing Technology.

In recent years, Steinway & Sons has embraced technological advancements while maintaining its traditional craftsmanship. The company introduced the Spirio, a high-resolution player piano that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern digital technology, allowing for live performances by renowned pianists to be recorded and reproduced with remarkable accuracy.

Highly skilled artisans.

Steinway & Sons continues to be a symbol of excellence in the world of piano manufacturing. Its rich history, commitment to quality, and unwavering dedication to the art of piano making have earned the company a place of honour in the hearts of musicians and music enthusiasts worldwide. As it enters its next century, Steinway & Sons remains a timeless icon, representing the pinnacle of musical expression and innovation.