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The Genuine Article
Episode FLGEN-105

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Steinway Showroom, New York City

Steinway Pianos (105)
Learn what goes into making Steinway pianos as we explore the 150-year history of these celebrated instruments. We'll also see the construction process and find out what appeals to consumers—and we'll sample some of the music produced by these pricey beauties.

Join us as we tour the Steinway warehouse and visit Steinway Hall (the temporary home to custom-made pianos). See how showroom salespeople cater to each customer, and get a lesson in shopping for pianos and piano teachers.

Steinway Facts:

  • Steinway & Sons was founded in New York in 1853 by Henry Englehard Steinway, an illiterate German cabinetmaker and musical instrument builder, and four of his five sons.

  • One hundred years ago, the Steinway factory produced about 2,500 pianos a year. Today, that number is almost unchanged because the production process remains as meticulous, diligent and committed to perfection.

  • The best way to choose a piano is to try out as many as possible, then pick the one that "speaks" to you.

  • Each Steinway piano is made up of over 12,000 parts. The company holds 115 patents that affect virtually all of those components.

  • The company will adjust the key action and even change the depth of the keys to make your piano work just the way you want.

  • Steinway Hall offers a "lifetime trade-up" guarantee. If you already have a Steinway, you can turn it in and pay only the difference in cost for a new higher-level piano.

Contact Information:

Steinway & Sons
www.steinway.com

Steinway Hall
Website: www.steinwayhall.com

Steinway Factory
Website: www.steinway.com

Alexander Ostrovsky, Piano Technician
212-928-4366

Resources:

88 Keys : The Making of a Steinway Piano

by Miles Chapin

Piano Technicians Guild
www.ptg.org

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