Steinmayer represents part of a new chapter in piano manufacturing. The decline in European based piano manufacturing has been in stark contrast to the booming Chinese piano market. China’s unbelievable economic growth over the last few decades has also developed a burgeoning middle class. Music is held in high esteem and is seen as a veritable career path for children in the family. The international superstardom of Chinese pianists like Lang Lang has also played a big part in providing a role model for thousands of children across China.
Steinmayer is an example of a piano manufacturer that was set up squarely to meet this huge demand from the domestic market. The Beijing based factory is now one of the largest piano manufacturing facilities in the world. Steinmayer pianos are designed and engineered by the renowned German piano maker Lothar Schell, whose work is also connected with Young Chang pianos of South Korea. This collaboration represents a sharing of European piano craftsmanship with Asian manufacturing and resources; at the Steinmayer factory they produce nearly all the parts in one location, the iron frames being forged at their onsite foundry.
But what do they sound like? They have been garnering vary favourable reviews and are frequently cited as one of the best entry level pianos on the market today. In 2010 Steinmayer pianos were awarded ‘the best entry level piano’ by the Independent’s guide ‘10 best pianos’. To date Steinmayer are the best selling Chinese pianos in the UK.
At our showroom we stock two main models, the S110 and the S108. Both models carry a manufacturer’s guarantee of 5 years and are available in high gloss black, light mahogany and dark mahogany finishes. The S110 has a more traditional upright design with front leg supports, while the S108 sports a more modern upright look.
What’s clear from playing is that Steinmayer have gone to great lengths to ensure consistency of sound quality with their instruments. Both pianos in our showroom have a very similar touch and tone, mellow with the brighter elements rounded off. This is particularly enjoyable when playing evening repertoire from the romantic period. However when required they can produce great depth, especially in the lower registers, with thick and vibrant colours emanating from the bass strings.
If you are looking for a good quality instrument to start exploring music on, these instruments come highly recommended. Pop in to our showroom to find out more.
Edward Bettella
