a legacy
of Innovation
The very first Steinway & Sons patent was granted in 1857, and the company has been granted more than 125 additional patents since, positioning the Steinway as the piano by which all others are judged.
This evolving innovation is recognized by concert halls throughout the world that cater to the most discriminating pianists. Quality, without compromise, is reflected with each new patent and design. A Steinway will last for many decades — but it is pianos younger than ten years old that are the choice of world’s best artists and most prestigious stages.
“Strive always to improve the instrument.”
Henry E. Steinway
When considering a pre-owned Steinway, it is essential to remember that a Steinway will only feature patents preceding the date of its completion. This means that a Steinway grand completed on March 5, 1923, will NOT include innovations or advancements as:
August 18, 1936 • Patent #2051633
The soundboard lies at the heart of a Steinway grand or upright. The current production of the Steinway & Sons soundboard is based on a 1936 patent to achieve optimum performance in dynamic range, and maximum sustain. Under this patent, the soundboard is gradually tapered from the center to the edge, permitting freedom of movement and creating a sound of unparalleled richness, sonority, and sustain.
May 28, 1963 • Patent #3091149
Due to the unique design of the Steinway pinblock all Steinways hold their tuning longer. The secret lies in the grain of the wood. The grain of each layer is positioned at 45 degrees to the grain in the next layer. As a result, the tuning pins are exposed on all sides to the tenacious grip of the maple’s end grain. The tighter the grip on the tuning pins, the longer the piano stays in tune.
Tomorrow’s Piano Today
Our company’s latest innovation, the Steinway & Sons Spirio, is the world’s finest high resolution player piano. A masterpiece of craftsmanship, technology and artistry, Spirio provides an unrivaled musical experience, indistinguishable from a live performance.
“I listened and was marveled. I must be dreaming.... Buying a piano no longer means having to wait for a pianist to play it at home.”
LANG LANG
on the Steinway & Sons Spirio
