What is a Grand Piano?
A grand piano is used primarily in concert hall performances or large rooms with proper resonance, hence the name "concert grand piano", which is generally considered the largest of the grand piano varieties, followed by the "Boudoir Grand" and "Baby Grand" pianos, which are slightly smaller versions of the concert grand pianos.
The difference in a grand piano and an upright piano is that the frame and strings lay horizontally, extending away from the keyboard. A grand piano has longer strings that result in a louder, stronger tone for a more "performance" sound.
There are many wonderful grand piano makers to choose from, each producing quality pianos. Whether you are looking to for a concert grand piano to use for performances in large venues, or a slightly smaller baby grand piano for your home or studio, do all the research you can and decide if you want a new or used piano? Either is fine, look for the top piano making companies and it's hard to go wrong! Grand piano prices can vary widely, but a quality grand piano seems to retain its value over the years quite well, often increasing in value!
Grand Piano Makers
Kawai - The World's Most Advanced Pianos
Baldwin - The largest U.S. manufacturer of keyboard instruments. "The best piano that could be built"
Bösendorfer - Some of the worlds finest grand pianos and upright pianos
Steinway & Sons - One of the best names in the piano business.
Bechstein - "The sound of Bechstein Pianos is strong pure and transparent, like the colours of the old masters and the spirit of classical music" - Edith Picht-Axenfeld
Broadwood - John Broadwood & Sons - manufacturer of pianos to Queen Elizabeth II
Estey - Superior tone quality and fine craftsmenship, along with a world-class name in music.
Estonia Piano -"The European performance piano."
Knabe Pianos - Wm. Knabe & Co. - established 1837 - "Time honored design...and a legacy of superior craftsmenship"
Mason & Hamlin - One of the oldest and most respected piano makers in America.
George Steck & Co. - Since 1884, an award winning tradition.
Sohmer & Co. - Classic, elegant pianos.
Schimmel Piano - A famous brand name with a rich history, respected world wide.
Yamaha - Over 100 years of tradition.
Charles R. Walter Piano Company - "the most advanced in modern technology and that which is the finest in old world craftsmanship"
Barbie Grand Piano - I had to include a page about this childrens piano toy. Hey, your child may enjoy it!