How To Find a Reputable Dealer of Golden-Era Steinway Pianos

A Golden Era Steinway piano can be part of your family's life for generations, and, understandably, you want to make educated decisions when acquiring one.

Many people buy pianos according to price and value, understandably. After all, pianos can be relatively costly. All purchasers have specific priorities, and they are all valid when it comes to selecting pianos. Still, when purchasing an heirloom Steinway piano, it is crucial to consider the dealer, which can significantly impact a piano's longevity and your enjoyment of it. Consider the following:

Reputation

It can be daunting to start looking for a properly restored Steinway piano. Finding a knowledgeable dealer with a good reputation is the first step. Consider word-of-mouth, technician and teacher referrals, or friend and family recommendations. Most people will be happy to share their positive experiences or tell you what you need to avoid.

Experience

Pianos are complicated instruments having thousands of moving parts. It is necessary to dedicate oneself to years of training and hands-on apprenticeship to gain thorough expertise and mastery of various piano rebuilding aspects. Consider working with a dealer whose craftspeople have skills you can vet by asking questions about their process and methods. When looking for rebuilt Steinway pianos, always go with experienced dealers who focus on in-house restoration and don't outsource their work.

Inventory

Look for a dealer with a substantial selection of pianos from which to choose. Buying a piano involves listening, feeling, and comparing. Trying several pianos can improve your chances of selecting the one that suits you best and will give you a strong sense of a rebuilder's work quality.

If you are looking for an expertly restored Steinway piano, consider dealers that focus their efforts solely on rebuilding and restoration instead of representing a wide range of new piano brands. When dealers offer an overly-assorted inventory consisting of new and digital pianos from multiple manufacturers, they cannot usually provide top-quality investment Steinway pianos. Dealers that want to be all things to all clients have unfocused priorities. They are at risk of being a little bit knowledgeable about many pianos types rather than thoroughly knowledgeable about one.

Financing

Many people finance major purchases like cars and houses and pay for pianos in a similar manner. If you prefer to pay for your piano over time, consider a dealer that is open to financing and payment options.

Customer Service

When you buy a piano, you are also purchasing a long-term relationship with the dealer. Consider your experience from the very beginning and look for:

• Prompt return of calls and emails

• Courteous and friendly manner

• Thoughtful answers to questions

• Consistent follow-up

You should expect to receive excellent service from day one through the day of your piano's delivery, plus over the long haul for technical or other needs, with the support of good warranties.

Integrity

Dealers who value your time, concerns, opinions, and service needs will ensure that buying a piano from them is a life-enhancing experience. Consider the person who helps you select your piano as a partner with whom you are comfortable speaking frankly and voicing your needs and concerns. You should feel confident that the dealer will follow up with you to service your needs long after your piano is delivered.

Suppose you choose to customize the restoration of a Steinway piano to your liking. In that case, it is especially important to establish a relationship with a knowledgeable Steinway restoration expert whom you trust to guide you through the process and help you make the best decisions.

When it comes to purchasing a restored, rebuilt, or used Steinway piano, it is essential to consider the reputation, knowledge, and experience of a dealer. Integrity and focus will ensure you find the Golden-Era Steinway piano of your dreams.