Category Archives: The piano world

Explorations into the world of pianos and piano makers.

What is the Yamaha S Series?

Posted on February 7, 2009 by Eric

In a nutshell, the S series are Yamaha’s concert level, hand made pianos. Made in a separate factory, these 3 models, the S4 (191 cn, 6’3″)  , S6 (212m, 6’11″) and CFIIIS  (275cm, 9′) (pronounced C F three S)  are … Continue reading →

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The High End Piano Experience

Posted on February 6, 2009 by Eric

I’m working on my concept  that we, as manufacturers, need to get together to develop and promote the idea of the High End Piano Experience, rather than assume that everybody agrees with our premise that these things are worth a … Continue reading →

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Should you buy a Steinway?

Posted on February 5, 2009 by Eric

Maybe, maybe not. The number one reason to NOT buy a Steinway is this: Don’t buy a Steinway because somebody told you it’s the best piano in the world.

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Some conflicts of interest.

Posted on January 31, 2009 by Eric

There is a problem representing a maker while blogging. It means that I have to be rather circumspect both in regards to Bosendorfer and in regards to competitors. This is an insanely small industry and one tends to hear all … Continue reading →

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Nice piano!

Posted on November 3, 2008 by Eric

I’m in Charleston SC right now (really great city!) and just heard Valentina Lisitsa play the Tchaikovsky 1 with the Warsaw Philharmonic. Valentina is a big Bosendorfer fan, and the feeling is mutual. But our bank of concert pianos can’t … Continue reading →

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Bluthner 3

Posted on April 29, 2008 by Eric

And the 3rd unique feature, in my opinion, is the 4th unison string in the treble. This string is raised above the level of the other 3, so the hammer does not strike it. It’s purpose is to vibrate sympathetically, … Continue reading →

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Wait, Andreas…let me explain!

Posted on April 24, 2008 by Eric

Why am I such a Bosendorfer geek? In a nutshell, everything I know about high end pianos I learned from Bosendorfer. Seeing my first Imperial at the University of Wisconsin/Madison at the ripe age of 20 set me on my … Continue reading →

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Bluthner 2

Posted on April 24, 2008 by Eric

Bluthner was the only maker of the 3 that allowed me to take photos. As Christian said, one can take all the photos one wants, you still won’t be able to build a Bluthner, and he’s right. The factory is … Continue reading →

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First stop, Bluthner

Posted on April 24, 2008 by Eric

Wednesday morning was a visit to Bluthner, where Christian Bluthner met us with his customary hospitality. This was the hardest day for my son, who had to endure a number of hours of piano related talk before getting on to … Continue reading →

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PianoGuy goes to Germany.

Posted on April 24, 2008 by Eric

Just got back from a quick tour of 3 German manufacturers; Bluthner, Steingraeber and Schimmel. I’ve been wanting to visit these makers (and others) and took advantage of my son’s school break and a (relatively) cheap fare from Delta to … Continue reading →

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