Understanding Piano Branding

These days, searching for a product by brand name is second nature to most of us. In fact, many websites actually recommend purchasing a piano in this way. Unlike refrigerators, cola beverages or cars, however, piano brand names change with such regularity and lack of fanfare that they make a poor selection criterion. Worse, many “piano” books claim to offer unbiased advice while, at the same time, taking advertising money from a variety of companies who build pianos. In short, piano buyers have to wade through a smokescreen of bad advice, ignorance, opinion and misrepresentation to select a piano... or do they?

The piano business has seen around 12,000 unique brand names in the last 300 years. Of the 200 or so brands that remain, most no longer represent the original designs that defined them in the first place. Only a few still build pianos “they way they used to” when they gained their World-wide fame. Thus, searching for a piano based solely on brand name is probably not a good idea.

As the area’s largest piano shop, we are able to obtain the best values from the most respected names in the industry, including Steinway & Sons, Roland, Charles Walter, Knabe, Yamaha, and more. More importantly, we have the tools and technical expertise to show you the differences within the popular brands so you can select the best piano your budget will allow.

Between our two Kentucky locations, we have an average of 200 pianos in stock from a large variety of name brands. This gives our clients the opportunity to learn about each brand, to see - inside and out - how they differ from other brands, and to decide which piano most appeals to them. Our shop staff specializes in piano construction - giving you a unique look “under the hood”.

Don't let your piano selection process confuse or discourage you. We can help. Please don't hesitate to ask.