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Advice on choosing, buying, and caring for a piano — from the team that knows every instrument on our floor.

August Förster Pianos: What Makes Them Different From Other German Piano Makers?
June 23, 2026

August Förster Pianos: What Makes Them Different From Other German Piano Makers?

When discussing the world’s finest German pianos, names such as Bechstein, Blüthner, Grotrian, and Bösendorfer often dominate the conversation. Yet among serious pianists, piano technicians, and connoisseurs, August Förster pianos have earned a reputation as one of the most respected and distinctive

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How to Find the Serial Number on Your C. Bechstein Piano
June 8, 2026

How to Find the Serial Number on Your C. Bechstein Piano

If you’re researching a C. Bechstein piano, determining its age, or preparing to buy or sell a used instrument, one of the first things you’ll need is the piano’s serial number. The serial number can help identify when the piano was manufactured and provide valuable insight into its history and valu

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Finding the Serial Number on Your Kawai Pianos: Uprights, Grands, & Digitals
June 5, 2026

Finding the Serial Number on Your Kawai Pianos: Uprights, Grands, & Digitals

If you’re researching a used Kawai piano, verifying a piano’s age, or looking up its manufacturing history, the first step is locating the piano’s serial number. Whether you own a Kawai upright piano, Kawai grand piano, or Kawai digital piano, the serial number can provide valuable information about

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Yamaha Piano Serial Numbers: How to Tell When and Where Your Yamaha Piano Was Made
June 3, 2026

Yamaha Piano Serial Numbers: How to Tell When and Where Your Yamaha Piano Was Made

One of the most common questions from piano shoppers is, “Where was my Yamaha piano made?” Whether you’re researching a Yamaha U1, Yamaha U3, or a Yamaha grand piano, the serial number can often reveal where the instrument was manufactured. Yamaha Piano Manufacturing Locations Yamaha pianos sold in

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How Old Is My Steinway? – How to Look Up Your Serial Number
May 15, 2026

How Old Is My Steinway? – How to Look Up Your Serial Number

Few names in the piano world carry the prestige and recognition of Steinway & Sons. For more than 170 years, Steinway has been considered one of the gold standards of piano craftsmanship, trusted by concert artists, universities, recording studios, and collectors around the globe. Founded in 1853 in

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Why the Shigeru Kawai Grand Piano Became One of the Most Talked-About Instruments at the Chopin Competition
May 11, 2026

Why the Shigeru Kawai Grand Piano Became One of the Most Talked-About Instruments at the Chopin Competition

Every few years, the piano world collectively holds its breath for the legendary International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw. Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and demanding piano competitions on earth, the event has launched the careers of some of history’s greatest pianists and s

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When Craft Became Legend – The Golden Era of Steinway
April 10, 2026

When Craft Became Legend – The Golden Era of Steinway

Between 1890 and 1940, Steinway & Sons entered what many pianists, technicians, and collectors now call its Golden Era—a period when artistry, innovation, and meticulous craftsmanship aligned to produce some of the finest pianos ever built. This era didn’t appear overnight. By the late 19th century,

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Estonia: The Best Kept Secret in Affordable High-End Pianos
February 6, 2026

Estonia: The Best Kept Secret in Affordable High-End Pianos

When pianists begin searching for a high-end grand piano, the same legendary names tend to dominate the conversation: Steinway & Sons, Bösendorfer, C. Bechstein, and Fazioli. But among experienced players, piano technicians, and informed buyers, another brand is gaining serious attention for offerin

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The Quiet Evolution of the Silent Piano
January 28, 2026

The Quiet Evolution of the Silent Piano

Silent pianos have become one of the fastest-growing segments of the acoustic piano market, offering pianists the freedom to practice quietly without sacrificing the feel and presence of a real instrument. As urban living, flexible practice habits, and technology-driven music making continue to rise

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Kawai AURES: Engineered for What’s Next
January 20, 2026

Kawai AURES: Engineered for What’s Next

In the evolving world of hybrid pianos—where acoustic action meets digital sound—Kawai’s Aures series has carved a reputation for marrying physical presence with cutting-edge audio immersion. At the heart of that experience is the transducer speaker system, a breakthrough that makes pianos like the

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Kawai CA-901 Hybrid Piano: Grand Feel, Digital Power
January 14, 2026

Kawai CA-901 Hybrid Piano: Grand Feel, Digital Power

The Kawai CA-901 has earned its reputation as one of the most sought-after hybrid digital pianos by doing something rare in the digital world: it feels, sounds, and behaves like a serious acoustic instrument while fully embracing modern technology. Designed for pianists who refuse to compromise, the

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Two Icons. Two Voices. One Conversation. – C. Bechstein and Steinway & Sons
December 31, 2025

Two Icons. Two Voices. One Conversation. – C. Bechstein and Steinway & Sons

When pianists compare great grand pianos, the discussion quickly moves beyond specifications and into something more personal. Sound becomes character, touch becomes language. Few comparisons capture this better than C. Bechstein Concert Series grand pianos and Steinway & Sons grand pianos. Both are

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Same Country, Different DNA: Comparing Two of Japan’s Most Iconic Upright Pianos
December 18, 2025

Same Country, Different DNA: Comparing Two of Japan’s Most Iconic Upright Pianos

Two stalwarts of the upright world: the Kawai K-300 and the Yamaha U1. Both are built in Japan, both stand around 48″, and both are professional-level uprights you’ll hear in schools, studios, and serious homes. But their personalities are different — and those differences matter depending on what y

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The Sound of Excellence: C. Bechstein Partners With the International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition
July 8, 2025

The Sound of Excellence: C. Bechstein Partners With the International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition

When the world’s most gifted pianists gather to compete on the international stage, only the finest instruments will do—and that’s why C. Bechstein will be front and center at the 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition. Revered for its rich, expressive tone and German precision, the C.

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How to Set Musical Goals and Actually Stick to Them This Year
January 6, 2025

How to Set Musical Goals and Actually Stick to Them This Year

The start of a new year is the perfect time to set fresh musical goals, whether you’re learning piano for the first time or aiming to master an advanced piece. But how do you ensure that these goals don’t fade away like last year’s resolutions? With the right strategies, you can keep your musical am

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Kawai Hybrid Pianos: Tradition Meets Technology
August 8, 2024

Kawai Hybrid Pianos: Tradition Meets Technology

Kawai, a name synonymous with innovation and quality in the piano world, continues to push the boundaries of musical technology with its remarkable range of digital hybrid pianos. These models combine the best of both worlds—the authentic touch and sound of an acoustic piano with the advanced featur

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Piano Pedals: What do those other two do?
July 31, 2024

Piano Pedals: What do those other two do?

When you first start learning to play the piano, the keys take center stage. But there’s another trio on the lower half of the instrument that often goes unnoticed—the pedals. And while that one pedal all the way to the right (sustain) typically gets the most usage, each pedal on a piano has a disti

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Unlocking Summertime Skills: The Benefits of Piano Learning for Children
June 20, 2024

Unlocking Summertime Skills: The Benefits of Piano Learning for Children

As the school year comes to a close and the lazy days of summer beckon, parents may find themselves wondering how to keep their children engaged and enriched during the long vacation months. While summer is traditionally a time for relaxation and fun, it’s also an ideal opportunity for children to e

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A Tale of Two Uprights: C. Bechstein Concert 8 vs. Blüthner Model B 170th Anniversary Edition
May 13, 2024

A Tale of Two Uprights: C. Bechstein Concert 8 vs. Blüthner Model B 170th Anniversary Edition

In the world of upright pianos, two names stand out among the rest: C. Bechstein and Blüthner. Renowned for their craftsmanship, innovation, and unparalleled musicality, these esteemed piano makers have each left an indelible mark on the world of music. Today, we embark on a journey to compare two o

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A Bunny’s Guide to Spring Cleaning & Piano Care
March 22, 2024

A Bunny’s Guide to Spring Cleaning & Piano Care

Hello, my dear friends! It’s me, your friendly neighborhood bunny, hopping into your world with a springtime melody in my heart and a tale of piano care to share. Spring has officially sprung, which reminds me of the importance of tending to our pianos with the same love and care as a deep spring cl

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Timeless Excellence: The Blüthner Legacy
February 5, 2024

Timeless Excellence: The Blüthner Legacy

In the illustrious realm of piano making, Blüthner stands as a beacon of excellence, revered by virtuosos and aficionados alike for its unparalleled quality and distinctive tonal brilliance. In the following article, we’ll explore the rich history of Blüthner pianos and the celebrated artists who ha

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A Resonant Journey of Player Pianos through the Years
December 21, 2023

A Resonant Journey of Player Pianos through the Years

In the annals of musical innovation, the player piano stands as a testament to the intersection of craftsmanship and technology. A marvel of its time, the player piano not only revolutionized how music was experienced but also marked a key chapter in the evolution of automated musical instruments. J

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Acoustics Academy: The Science Behind Piano Sound
December 15, 2023

Acoustics Academy: The Science Behind Piano Sound

In the seemingly effortless dance of hammers against strings, the piano orchestrates a symphony that transcends mere mechanics— it is a result of precise science and harmonious design. Let’s embark on a journey into the heart of the piano, exploring the scientific principles that orchestrate the mag

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Harmony in Hygrometry: The Impact of Cold, Dry Weather on Your Piano
December 5, 2023

Harmony in Hygrometry: The Impact of Cold, Dry Weather on Your Piano

As the winter frost settles in, the cozy allure of crackling fires and warm blankets accompanies the chill in the air. However, for your piano, this season introduces a symphony of challenges. Cold and dry weather can significantly affect the delicate balance of wood within your instrument, making u

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C. Bechstein Pianos: An Ode to Unrivaled Craftsmanship
November 30, 2023

C. Bechstein Pianos: An Ode to Unrivaled Craftsmanship

In the intricate world of piano craftsmanship, the name C. Bechstein resonates as a symphony of excellence. Since its establishment in 1853 in Berlin, this brand has crafted a legacy steeped in precision, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to musical sophistication. C. Bechstein’s journey began

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The Epic Showdown
October 20, 2023

The Epic Showdown

Alright, folks, gather ’round the musical campfire, because we’re about to dive into a battle as legendary as Beethoven’s bad hair day versus Mozart’s frilly wigs: European piano makers versus their Japanese counterparts! It’s a clash of cultures, a symphony of styles, and a showdown of sonic propor

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Am I losing out on quality if I buy used instead of new?
July 31, 2023

Am I losing out on quality if I buy used instead of new?

Short answer: No, but let’s dig a bit deeper… Raise your hand if you’ve ever shopped for a used car before. Great! Now put your hand down, you look weird. But yes, if you’re already aware of what to look for in a used vehicle, the decision between a new and used piano is surprisingly Read More

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Is An Acoustic or Digital Piano Right For You?
October 15, 2022

Is An Acoustic or Digital Piano Right For You?

Acoustic vs Digital Acoustic or digital? Upright or grand? Team Edward or Team Jacob? Life is full of tough choices. Choices often don’t come down to right or wrong, but rather what fits your specific needs. Do you need the unmistakable feel of an acoustic piano or the flexibility of a digital? Can

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What levels of piano quality are there?
September 29, 2022

What levels of piano quality are there?

Consumer-Grade v. Intermediate-Grade v. Performance-Grade So you’ve decided to buy a piano. Congratulations on your first step in being the coolest kid on the block. But whether you’re Lang Lang, or someone that’s brand new to the game, there are indeed many things to consider before taking home an

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Your Brain on Piano
September 29, 2022

Your Brain on Piano

It’s probably reasonable to conclude that the majority of people who end up learning to play the piano in life never regret it. hey can end up experiencing a myriad of personal benefits from doing so, many of which extend beyond the scope of the pleasure of music itself. Among the many benefits, lea

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Should I Buy a Grand or an Upright Piano?
December 29, 2021

Should I Buy a Grand or an Upright Piano?

There are a few noticeable differences between a grand piano and an upright piano. The main difference is size. A grand piano’s strings are stretched out horizontally, not vertically, and as such takes up a lot more surface area of a room than an upright piano. An upright piano has the strings stret

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