Designing All Seasons

THE MAGIC OF A BÖSENDORFER: AN ALL SEASONS STAPLE

You may have noticed the grand pianos which command attention in the grand living spaces of our communities. Maybe you've noticed the way musicians are drawn to them, how they relish in the sounds and feels of bringing a Bösendorfer to life. But if you're unfamiliar with the pianos and their history, you're not alone. Here are just some of the reasons these pianos are truly unique and beloved by the most celebrated pianists throughout history. In 1824, Ignaz Bosendorfer began refining the handmade pianos of Joseph Brodman, a piano builder in Vienna. Primarily, he wanted to heighten the volume of the instrument, whilst preserving the soft, melodious sound of the string. After having won gold medals at industry exhibitions, Ignaz Bosendorfer was awarded the grand title of ‘Imperial and Royal Fortepiano Purveyor to the Court’ in 1839 by Emperor Ferdinand I because of his work. Among the earliest artists to be associated with Bösendorfer was Franz Liszt who at least once opined that Bösendorfer and Bechstein pianos were the only instruments capable of withstanding his tremendously powerful playing. Bösendorfer remains the premier Austrian piano manufacturer and is unusual in that it produces 97- and 92-key models, in addition to instruments with standard 88-key keyboards. Contrary to all other manufacturers, Bösendorfer constructs instruments concentrating on the use of spruce. More than 80% of spruce, ideal for instruments, can be found in Bösendorfer pianos. The whole body - not exclusively the soundboard - supports sound formation. The actual core of the piano rim consists of a 10 mm quarter-sawn piece that is specially grooved by craftsmen to allow it to be bent to the silhouette around the inner rim. This is unique to Bösendorfer. When a note is played, the integrated spruce components become acoustically active, forming a complete resonating body that allows the whole instrument to project the music. Also, Bösendorfer is the only piano manufacturer that applies a detachable and independent Capo d’Astro in the upper register. This is how artisans assure the most precise adjustment in the upper register, guaranteeing the original Bösendorfer sound for generations. We are proud to offer these world renowned instruments to resident and touring musicians for a unique All Seasons experience.