A
fine quality grand piano should certainly be considered if space and
budget permit.
Because of the design, a grand piano has certain inherent advantages
over the vertical configuration. The gravity-type action of a fine grand
allows for faster repetition of notes and for better, more ,subtle control
of expression and tone than that of a vertical action piano. The horizontal
construction and the shape of the soundboard allow the tone to develop
in an open manner. Musically, a fine grand is superior to a vertical
piano. Aesthetically, it can be an elegant and dramatic addition to
your home decor.
However, space and budget are often major considerations, and not all
grands are created equal. A first class vertical piano is an excellent
musical instrument, and will outperform and outlast a poorly made, inexpensive,
small grand. Vertical pianos come in a variety of furniture styles and
finishes that can enhance your home’s decor, and will take a fraction
of the space of even a small grand.
Why are some pianos more expensive than others?
The simple answer is because high quality pianos are more expensive
to manufacture than lesser quality instruments.
Selection of Materials. The finest materials –
top grade spruce, wool felt, expensive hard rock maple, veneers, and
all the other components that go into the making of the piano –
will affect the end result. The makers of more expensive instruments
take great care in selecting and handling their materials consistent
with the quality of that instrument.
Preparation of Materials. Proper seasoning of woods
is time-consuming and costly. First
the wood must be air-dried for a period of time, and then placed in
kilns to stabilize it to specific moisture contents. Through this process,
better instrument manufacturers go to great lengths
to ensure the quality and long life of their pianos.
Workmanship. There is no substitute for quality of
workmanship. The more skilled the
workers are, the better the piano. Mass produced pianos are less expensive
than ‘hand-crafted’ instruments. For example, it takes approximately
one year to create each Steinway & Sons grand piano.
Scale Design. A beautifully balanced scale is the result
of the work of a master scale designer. Scales tend to evolve and be
refined over a period of time. Manufacturers of the finest pianos constantly
strive to find ways to make their scales’ designs even better.
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