Dean Karavite
10-28-2008, 6:54 AM
Hello All,
Whether you are interested in music or pianos, I thought I would recommend an interesting book, "Piano: The Making of a Steinway Concert Grand" by James Barron. While mixing in a history of the company he follows the construction of a single piano through the entire factory. There is a lot that, I think, would be of interest to wood workers. For example, they often deal with tolerances in wood of down to hundredths of an inch! The bending of the case (all maple) was pretty darn amazing too. Also, we go on a spruce buying trip with their buyer and you have to wonder how Steinway will continue to find wood for their sound boards. All that and tools, finishes and more.
I actually inherited a Steinway and I can't tell you how many times I open it up and marvel at how they built this thing. It is by far the most amazing thing in my house. Check out the book and maybe visit a dealer to see one for yourself. If you are anywhere near NY, they have tours. I haven't done that yet, but it is on the list.
Thanks,
Dean
Whether you are interested in music or pianos, I thought I would recommend an interesting book, "Piano: The Making of a Steinway Concert Grand" by James Barron. While mixing in a history of the company he follows the construction of a single piano through the entire factory. There is a lot that, I think, would be of interest to wood workers. For example, they often deal with tolerances in wood of down to hundredths of an inch! The bending of the case (all maple) was pretty darn amazing too. Also, we go on a spruce buying trip with their buyer and you have to wonder how Steinway will continue to find wood for their sound boards. All that and tools, finishes and more.
I actually inherited a Steinway and I can't tell you how many times I open it up and marvel at how they built this thing. It is by far the most amazing thing in my house. Check out the book and maybe visit a dealer to see one for yourself. If you are anywhere near NY, they have tours. I haven't done that yet, but it is on the list.
Thanks,
Dean