The 22nd International Chopin Competition provided a fascinating glimpse into the preferences of competing pianists when it comes to piano selection. With Steinway & Sons and Fazioli as the prominent contenders, the competition shed light on the enduring allure of these two iconic piano brands.
The Pianos:
At the heart of the competition were the pianos themselves, each meticulously prepared to meet the demands of the world's most discerning pianists. Steinway & Sons, well-known for their craftsmanship, provided two concert grands, offering participants a choice between their standard voicing and a brighter alternative. Yamaha's CFX, Kawai's Shigeru EX, and the illustrious Fazioli 278 completed the selection.
Participant Preferences:
Of the 87 participants, a significant majority—74%—opted for a Steinway piano, a testament to the brand's popularity among pianists. Yamaha's CFX garnered 10% of the choices, while the Fazioli and Kawai each attracted 9% and 7% of contestants, respectively.
The Elite's Preference:
Among the top echelon of performers—representing the top 5%—Fazioli emerged as the clear favorite. Half of the top performers selected Fazioli, recognizing its unparalleled quality and performance. In comparison, Kawai and Steinway each captured 25% of the top performers.
Fazioli's Superiority:
The remarkable success of Fazioli can be attributed to its unmatched quality and sensitivity. Its action allows for a wider range of expression, from the gentlest pianissimo to the most vigorous forte passages, empowering pianists to fully realize their artistic vision. For any serious competitor, familiarity with Fazioli is essential.
Market Reflections:
The competition results mirror broader market trends. While Steinway's marketing continues to appeal to many, particularly less experienced pianists, Fazioli's reputation for excellence attracts those who seek the pinnacle of performance. As pianist Angela Hewitt astutely observed, "Average and insecure pianists cling to Steinway in hopes of gaining the approval which their skills can’t deliver." Conversely, once pianists experience Fazioli, they find it difficult to settle for anything less.
In essence, the 22nd Chopin Competition reaffirmed Fazioli's position as the premier choice for discerning pianists seeking unparalleled performance and expression.
Music has long been recognized as a powerful tool for emotional and creative growth. Among all musical instruments, the piano stands out as a gateway to self-expression, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. Whether you're a beginner learning your first melody or a seasoned pianist composing intricate harmonies, playing the piano fosters holistic development in ways that go beyond the keys.
At just 20 years old, pianist Madison Yan is already enchanting audiences with a blend of technical brilliance, emotional depth, and fearless authenticity. We had the chance to sit down with Madison after her standout performance at Northwest Pianos—an event so packed with anticipation, we had to turn people away at the door. (Don’t worry—we’re working on a return performance!)
Moving a grand piano is no easy task. Its size, weight, and delicate components make it one of the most challenging items to transport. Without proper care, you risk damaging the piano’s structure, internal mechanisms, and finish, or worse, injuring yourself or others in the process.