Premium brand review – Bosendorfer, a true legend

One of the most recognised piano manufacturers is Bösendorfer – an Austrian company founded in the first half of the 19th century. To this day it maintains a high position on the world’s musical instruments market. It delights, above all, with the high quality of its pianos and the wonderful design which will please even the most sophisticated tastes. 

Table of contents

• Long and rich history
• Top quality workmanship
• Tradition and modernity
• Classic models of Bösendorfer pianos
• Collector’s editions
• When was my Bosendorfer piano produced?
• How much do Bösendorfer pianos cost?
• Summary

Long and rich history

The Bosendorfer company was founded in 1828 by the Austrian musician Ignaz Bösendorfer. After his death, production was taken over by his son Ludwig, who led to a very dynamic development of the company. By the end of the 19th century, Bosendorfer pianos were being played at the courts of aristocratic families, royal and imperial, including in Russia and France. Around 1900 the Bosendorfer Imperial was built, a top-class grand piano concert instrument which became a model for other instruments throughout the world. In the following years the company changed ownership several times. The Bosendorfer survived the Second World War and was acquired by the Kimbal company in 1966. Since 2008, it has been owned by the world-famous Yamaha corporation.

Top quality workmanship

Bosendorfer has in its offer pianos intended for the most demanding musicians. The company boasts the highest quality of workmanship, precision and, consequently, perfect sound. The manufacturer uses components mainly originating from Austria. It is worth mentioning the copper and steel used for the production of strings, as well as spruce wood. This wood is the basis of every Bosendorfer piano. The wood first dries in natural conditions for 5 years before being used in production. Because of these things, these pianos achieve their unique sound.

The factory focuses primarily on quality, which is confirmed by the number of instruments produced – only about 300 per year. Unlike many other manufacturers, Bosendorfer carries out individual orders, and during the production of a piano the individual elements are still assembled by hand. It is possible to order different colour versions, finishes, as well as veneered elements using different types of wood.

Tradition and modernity

In addition to traditional instruments, the company continues to innovate. It offers pianos equipped with the Silent System option, which allows you to switch from acoustic to digital mode. There is also a Disklavier version, which has extensive mechanisms that allow both the piano to play songs on its own and a recording option. For many, these may be compromises that go too far, but there’s no denying that modern technology makes life easier. It allows you to combine the advantages of acoustic instruments with the possibilities of high-end digital instruments.

Classic models of Bösendorfer pianos

Pianos

Grand pianos

Concert grand pianos

Collector’s editions

Bosendorfer produces many classic piano and upright piano models adapted to the expectations of different customers. In addition to these, the offer also includes limited and collector’s versions referring to famous artists. An example is the Cocteau limited series dedicated to the French playwright and painter. The lid is screen-printed with Jean Cocteau’s likeness of Orpheus. Other pianos of this type include, among others, the Bosendorfer Porsche series or the Liszt and Strauss series designed to pay tribute to outstanding composers.

When was my Bosendorfer piano produced?

For the answer to this question, be sure to check the serial number of your instrument and then locate it within the date range below:

How much do Bösendorfer pianos cost?

Bösendorfer is a premium brand in every respect. For many people, Bösendorfer is the best, even most legendary, piano brand in the world. The prices of new instruments are not low. They range between €20,000 and €45,000 for an upright piano to as much as €200,000 for a grand piano. Second-hand models can be bought correspondingly cheaper – prices average between €10,000 and €100,000, depending on the model and condition. An example is a used Bösendorfer 225, which can be bought for around €40,000-50,000. Bösendorfer pianos are often refurbished, so you can find offers for restored models, even using original parts. Restoration preserves the original character and sound of the instrument, which is very important for many people.

Summary

Regardless of our assessment of the company, the Bosendorfer brand is a true legend. The instruments have a unique look and a unique sound. The rich history as well as the high rating on the market contribute to the fact that owning your own Bosendorfer is the dream of many musicians all over the world. It is certainly worth playing such an instrument to see how a popular piano differs from a top-class instrument costing a small fortune. The rest depends on your skills and sensitivity to music.

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