“Early Parlor Grand” Model Steinway Piano in Exquisite Blonde Rosewood Cabinet
This piano, known today as the “Early Parlor Grand”, was built by Steinway & Sons in 1878. This model was originally sold by Steinway as the “Style 1” grand piano, a style that Steinway produced from 1861 – 1879. The “Style 1” was the predecessor of the famous Steinway “Model B”. When this piano was built, the majority of pianos built by Steinway were square grand pianos, with only a small fraction of Steinway pianos being of the grand or upright type. The “Style 1” grand piano is quite rare today.
This instrument is done in an unusual high polish Blonde Rosewood finish, much lighter in color than conventional rosewood finishes from this period. The overall appearance of this instrument is simply stunning. It is made in the desirable cabriole leg style with carved music rack and pedal lyre.
Steinway grand pianos this early are quite rare, and the majority of surviving instruments are not in playable condition. This instrument has been restored with an entirely new action of modern design so that it plays and sounds like a newer conventional concert grand piano. It is truly a spectacular instrument to see and hear.
In 2009, Steinway re-introduced a limited number of reproduction Rococo style grand pianos patterned after this original instrument. The new reproduction Rococo Steinways are retailing for about $110,000.
If desired, this piano can be equipped with the Pianomation player system, and can play by itself by streaming music live on an iPod, computer, iPad, etc.
A matching bench is included.