Introduction
When it comes to legendary piano performances, there’s often a special partnership at play: a great pianist and a great piano. Many famous pianists and their piano brands of choice have become inseparable in music lore. From grand concert halls to intimate studios, certain piano makers are favored by the pros for their sound and craftsmanship. This article will explore some of the best piano brands – like Steinway & Sons, Yamaha, Bösendorfer, and Petrof – and the renowned pianists who love them. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned musician, read on to discover what makes these pianos special and pick up tips for your own piano journey (for more tips, see our beginner piano guide). We’ll also shine a spotlight on Petrof pianos – including their history, unique qualities, and why they’re cherished by musicians – and share why we’re proud to be the official Petrof dealer in the UAE.
Steinway & Sons – The Choice of Legends
A Steinway & Sons Model D concert grand piano. This piano is a common sight on concert stages around the world – in fact, 9 out of 10 concert artists choose Steinway grand pianos. Steinway & Sons, founded in 1853, has built a reputation as one of the best piano brands in the world. Most professional pianists insist on Steinways for their performances, drawn by the rich tone, responsive touch, and stellar craftsmanship. It’s often said that “most professional pianists choose to perform only on Steinway pianos,” and with good reason.
Many legendary artists have been open about their Steinway preference. Superstar pianist Lang Lang famously declared, “There is no way but Steinway.” He even helped design a special Steinway model (the Black Diamond) to celebrate his relationship with the brand. Martha Argerich, another classical icon, has praised Steinway’s quality by saying “sometimes a Steinway plays better than the pianist.” And consider the late Vladimir Horowitz – he was so loyal to his Steinway that he toured with his personal nine-foot Model D. Horowitz insisted that this beloved piano be shipped to every concert venue, no matter the distance. Such anecdotes show how Steinway’s unparalleled sound and build inspire fierce devotion. For over a century, Steinway grands have been the quintessential professional pianos for concert halls, known for their powerful yet nuanced voice. If you dream of playing on the big stage, chances are you dream of a Steinway.
Yamaha – From Classical to Pop Stage
While Steinway rules many classical stages, Yamaha pianos have earned a place in both concert halls and stadiums. Yamaha’s journey from its first grand piano in 1902 to world-renowned status is a story of innovation. By the late 1960s, Yamaha’s concert grands proved themselves at international competitions: even the great Russian virtuoso Sviatoslav Richter switched to using Yamaha pianos after encountering one in France. Glenn Gould, famed for his Bach recordings, similarly fell in love with Yamaha late in his career – he purchased two Yamaha grands and recorded his final Goldberg Variations on them. These endorsements showed that Yamaha could impress even classical purists with its consistency and clear tone, earning a reputation as a best piano brand in its own right.
Beyond classical circles, Yamaha is hugely popular among contemporary and pop musicians. Over 3,600 artists – from pop icons to jazz masters – regularly perform or record with Yamaha pianos. For example, Sir Elton John has used Yamaha grand pianos for decades (including custom-designed tour pianos), entrusting Yamaha instruments to deliver his signature rock ballads. Artists like Alicia Keys, Paul McCartney, and John Legend have also favored Yamaha grands on stage and in studio. The appeal lies in Yamaha’s blend of reliability, modern engineering, and bright, projecting sound that can fill large venues. Whether it’s a Yamaha CFX concert grand booming through a concert hall or an upright in a school practice room, the brand’s pianos are praised for their sturdy build and balanced tone. Yamaha’s range even covers hybrid and digital pianos, reflecting their innovative spirit. For a beginner or a pro, a Yamaha offers a combination of quality and value that’s hard to beat – it’s a top choice for those seeking professional pianos that can also fit a variety of budgets and settings.
Bösendorfer – Handcrafted Austrian Excellence
Bösendorfer is a name that makes piano aficionados swoon. Founded in 1828 in Vienna, Bösendorfer is the world’s oldest continuously-operating piano manufacturer. Each instrument is still handcrafted in Austria, with only a few hundred made per year, embodying Old World craftsmanship. Bösendorfer grands are widely regarded among the finest pianos ever built, famous for a uniquely warm, singing tone and, in the case of the flagship Imperial model, an extended keyboard with 97 keys for extra bass resonance. This legendary quality attracted none other than Franz Liszt. The 19th-century virtuoso was notorious for playing so fiercely he broke pianos – yet he opined that Bösendorfer (and fellow maker Bechstein) were the only pianos robust enough to withstand his power. That early endorsement launched Bösendorfer’s reputation as the ultra-durable, concert-ready instrument for the most demanding pianists.
Over the years, a host of great artists have been associated with Bösendorfer. Classical masters like Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli, András Schiff, and Alfred Brendel have performed on Bösendorfer pianos, relishing their rich tonal palette. Even jazz legend Oscar Peterson and avant-garde artists have appreciated the brand’s depth of sound (the famous 1975 Köln Concert by Keith Jarrett was played on a Bösendorfer). These pianos are often described as having a “singing” quality – a clarity and sustain that make them ideal for expressive playing. Given their limited production, owning a Bösendorfer is a bit like owning a rare piece of art. They are expensive (a new 9’6″ Imperial can cost over US$250,000), but for those who seek the pinnacle of European piano-making, Bösendorfer is worth every penny. From its ornate cabinetry to the thunderous bass notes, this brand delivers a boutique piano experience. If you ever get to play one, you’ll understand why Bösendorfer remains a symbol of musical luxury and why many connoisseurs include it in any list of the best piano brands for true enthusiasts.
Petrof – A Czech Legacy with a UAE Connection
When talking about European pianos, we must highlight Petrof – a brand that holds a special place for us as the official Petrof dealer in the UAE. Petrof pianos combine rich history with a distinctive sound that has earned them the nickname “the sound of romance.” Founded in 1864 by Antonín Petrof in the Czech Republic, the company has stayed in the Petrof family for five generations. Today, Petrof is proudly the largest producer of acoustic grand and upright pianos in Europe, exporting to over 60–65 countries worldwide. Despite their global reach, Petrof pianos are still made with Old World care: approximately 80% of the manufacturing process is done by hand by skilled craftsmen, using high-quality European materials. This ensures each instrument carries the Petrof family’s legacy of quality.
Petrof pianos are beloved for their unmistakable tone. Musicians often describe the Petrof sound as unusually warm, gentle, and rounded – truly a romantic tone that’s perfect for expressive playing. The bass register is deep and resonant, the mid-range is lyrical, and the treble has a singing sweetness. This voice has made Petrof a favorite especially for Chopin or Debussy pieces, where a singing, emotive tone is desired. The touch of a Petrof is typically medium-weight and very responsive, allowing nuanced control for advanced pianists while still being friendly to beginners’ hands. In terms of positioning, Petrof offers excellent value: their pianos are generally more affordable than the ultra-high-end Steinways or Bösendorfers, while still delivering a professional caliber instrument. This makes Petrof a smart choice for serious students, advanced amateurs, and institutions looking for European quality without an exorbitant price tag.
Petrof’s combination of quality and value hasn’t gone unnoticed. Countless famous performers and personalities have fallen in love with Petrof pianos. Notably, artists as diverse as Ray Charles and Paul McCartney have used Petrof instruments, as have classical giants like Sviatoslav Richter and Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli. Such endorsements speak volumes about Petrof’s credibility on the world stage.
As the official Petrof pianos UAE dealer, we are passionate about this brand. Petrof’s motto could be “heart and soul in every piano,” and we see that firsthand with each instrument we receive. Below are some of the unique qualities that make Petrof pianos special:
- Rich, Romantic Tone: Petrof pianos are celebrated for their soft, lyrical voice. Pianists love the warm and enchanting sound that lends a singing quality to melodies. This romantic tone makes playing a Petrof an emotionally rewarding experience.
- European Craftsmanship: Each Petrof is handcrafted in the Czech Republic with parts sourced from Europe. Approximately 80% of the piano – from the spruce soundboard to the action mechanism – is made in-house by Petrof. This meticulous approach ensures Old World quality and consistency in every instrument.
- Family Legacy: Petrof remains a family-owned company after over 150 years. Now led by the Petrof family’s 5th generation, the company has never wavered in its dedication to excellence. Owning a Petrof means joining a story that spans generations of musical tradition.
- Global Recognition & Value: Petrof is Europe’s top piano maker by volume, and its pianos have won gold medals at world exhibitions. Musicians worldwide admire Petrof’s blend of quality and affordability. They are pricier than beginner-oriented brands, but significantly more accessible than some other high-end European pianos – a sweet spot that offers professional pianos quality at a reasonable investment.
If you’re looking for Petrof pianos in the UAE, you’re in luck. We are proud to be the country’s official Petrof dealer, offering a handpicked selection of Petrof grands and uprights. This means UAE musicians can experience that Petrof magic firsthand – visit our showroom and let the romantic sound of a Petrof grand inspire you. Whether you’re a concert pianist or a hobbyist, these pianos invite you to create music with heart and soul. Petrof’s slogan is “the sound of Europe,” and once you hear one, you’ll understand why.
Conclusion – Finding Your Own Sound
The bond between a pianist and their piano is something truly special. We’ve seen how maestros like Lang Lang, Martha Argerich, or Elton John gravitate to specific brands – and how those famous pianists’ piano brands become part of their musical identity. Steinway’s bold resonance, Yamaha’s versatility, Bösendorfer’s rich elegance, Petrof’s warm romance – each has its charm and legacy. For beginners reading this, you might be wondering what this means for you. The key takeaway is inspiration: knowing what the pros prefer can guide you toward the best piano brands and help you appreciate the nuances of each. Ultimately, the best piano is one that suits your needs and makes you excited to play. If you’re just starting out, check out our beginner piano guide for tips on choosing your first instrument, whether it’s an upright for home practice or a quality digital piano. And if you aspire to one day perform on a nine-foot Steinway or a handcrafted Petrof, remember that every artist started somewhere. Take your time, explore different pianos, and listen for the one that speaks to you. With the right instrument by your side, you’ll be well on your way to making your own beautiful music – perhaps on a piano brand that one day you will come to love and endorse as passionately as the legends do.