Grand Pianos and Their Makers

There is something very special about grand pianos. Perhaps it’s the deep, unsurpassed, rich tonal quality produced when the hammer hits the strings, or the sleek shining finish. Maybe it’s their imposing size, or the fact that their very presence conveys wealth and elegance. It may even be a combination of all of these things – but, whatever it is, it’s almost impossible not to fall in love with the sound of a well-played, well-tuned grand piano.

For centuries, people have adored these instruments – placing them in the center of concert stages, ballrooms and other places or gather. However, the true magic of a grand lies in its craftsmanship. Here are some of the top manufacturers of grand pianos:

Baldwin Piano – Until 2008, Baldwin was the largest manufacturer of keyboard style instruments in the United States. However, the company now builds most of their pianos in factories in China. Today the company is a subsidiary of Gibson Guitar, and is still well known for their production of high quality grand pianos and other keyboard instruments.

Steinway – Founded in New York City in 1853 by German-born Heinrich Engelhard Steinweg, Steinway has long remained one of the most prominent piano manufacturers in the world. Known for finely crafted pianos of all types, the company has sold models to famous musicians, royals and other well known people all over the world. In fact, a Steinway grand even sits in The White House.

Yamaha – Today, this Japanese conglomerate produces everything from motorcycles and computer products to power sports equipment and other electronics. However, it was founded in 1887 with only two products – pianos and organs. Today, the company still builds top quality pianos of all types, including a very popular electronic grand.

Kohler and Campbell – This manufacturer was founded in 1896 by Charles Kohler, a factory organizer and John Calvin Campbell, a machinist and inventor. The two men built one of the largest piano companies in the United States – and the company is still alive today. From their very beginning, the company vowed to provide the best pianos for their price. The company still lives by this credo and continues to make sophisticated and affordable grand pianos.

Schimmel Pianos– This company, started by another German-born musician, was founded in 1885 and is still owned by the Schimmel family. The manufacturer creates beautiful grand and upright pianos for all sorts of us, but is especially popular for their concert grand pianos.

Knabe – Wm. Knabe & Co. Pianos was founded in Baltimore, MD in the mid 1800s by a former cabinet maker, farmer and music enthusiast from Germany. Over the years, the company was bought out by different corporations, and today the manufacturer is owned by Samick Musical Instruments, who helps to maintain the quality and credibility of their beautiful grand pianos.

If you are interested in any of the above mentioned pianos, then you’ll be happy to know that we sell all of these brands – and more – at Cooper Piano. Come visit us and find the grand pianos of your dreams.

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