The summary of ‘Why Steinway Grand Pianos Are So Expensive | So Expensive’

This summary of the video was created by an AI. It might contain some inaccuracies.

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The video delves into the craftsmanship behind Steinway grand pianos, highlighting the meticulous 11-month crafting process and the premium prices ranging from $187,000 to over $2 million. Renowned for their exceptional sound quality, these pianos are favored by musicians like Billy Joel, with the Alaskan Sitka spruce crucial for the soundboard. Steinway's unique sustained tone is achieved through precise construction techniques, including using hard rock maple for the inner and outer rims. The final tone inspection and the delicate process of softening piano hammers reveal the intricate artistry and attention to detail in creating these musical masterpieces. The significant value appreciation of old Steinway pianos, reaching over $98,000 for a 1965 model, highlights the enduring worth and prestige associated with these instruments. Ultimately, a Steinway piano's value transcends monetary worth, as it is shaped by the musician's perspective and the instrument's intended use.

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In this segment of the video, it is highlighted that a Steinway grand piano takes around 11 months to craft, with prices ranging from $187,000 to over $2 million. Steinway pianos are renowned for their sound quality, being favored by professional musicians like Billy Joel. The sound of a Steinway piano is attributed to the meticulous selection of materials, with the Alaskan Sitka spruce being a critical component for the soundboard. The stringent standards for wood quality, including specific grain density and direction, contribute to the exceptional sound of Steinway pianos.

00:03:00

In this part of the video, it is explained how Steinway pianos achieve a unique sustained tone by ensuring the soundboard’s edge perfectly attaches to the piano’s rim. Steinway uses hard rock maple for both the inner and outer rims to allow sound to flow freely. Each key is meticulously balanced by two artisans in the factory to ensure consistent touch and sound production. Final tone inspection involves adjusting hammers to create a balanced tone throughout the piano, showing the nuanced quality only an experienced ear can decipher.

00:06:00

In this segment of the video, the speaker discusses the process of softening piano hammers to adjust the tone. They highlight the continuous learning involved in piano maintenance and customization, comparing it to customizing a Rolls-Royce car. The video also mentions the high prices of Steinway pianos, reaching up to half a million dollars for special editions. The value of old Steinway pianos can appreciate significantly over time, with a 1965 model being worth over $98,000 today. The ultimate worth of a piano is determined by the musician’s perspective and use.

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