The gol den Tone Blüthner instrumentscanreally sing... orchestras andpianists alike areimpressedbythesound,theshadingofthe dynamics, and the outstanding performance of the instruments. Chamber musicians praise the tonal characterasbeing full ofcharmwith a sound comparabletoa violin cello.Singerslove the goldentoneforaccompanyingthehumanvoice. Musicians andcomposersaffectionately call the Blüthner instrument “the poet among the pianos”. over 150,000pianos have been producedofwhich manyhave been playedbywell-knownpersonalities – thebest ofwhom haveleft their statementsofdedication in thecompany archive.
“Blüthner instruments canreally sing. This is probablythegreatest compliment that can be paid to an instrument” Wilhelm Furtwängler 1 2 LEIPZIG
A legendis born...
Follow a successful company history that, atthesame time,isalsoa family history.
In the middle of the 19th century, the city of l eipzig was oneofthecultural centres attheheart ofeurope equal to Paris, l ondon or Vienna. The enlightened andaffluent middle-classofl eipzigwas very ambi- tious, self-confidentandopenminded,andthecity itself was already well knownfor its international trade and its university. Changing circumstances meant thatscientific andcultural educationwas no longer reserved for the aristocracy. during this period, thepeopleofl eipzigprospered.
The advancementsduring this time canbeseen in the history of the University of l eipzig, and in the prom- inenceoftheSt. Thomas choir,thegewandhaus orchestra, andtheopera, andtheAcademy ofMusic (founded in 1843byFelix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy).
The Blüthner family was richly influenced by the musicaltraditions ofthecity, andwas inspired bythe entrepreneurial spirit presentin l eipzig.
All ofthesewere convincing reasonsforJulius Blüthner to open his piano factory, without knowing that hewasaboutto establishsuch ahighly successful enterprise.on 18th november 1853,with excellent credentials anda budget of “1660 talers, 2new groschen, 1 pennyand1 farthing”,Julius Blüthner started hispianofortefactory.his instrumentswere quickly recognizedfor their outstanding technical and musicalqualities andwere establishedin concerthalls all over the world.
3 J uliusBlüthner – purveyortothecourts
“I will build new fortepianosand grand pianos of German andEnglish design... andthensellthem” – This wasthesimpleand consistentbusiness plan ofthe youngentrepreneur.Production beganin arented workshop with thehelpofthree journeymen andthe motto, “God will leadme!”Ten instruments weremade in thefirst year,eightgrandsandtwosquarepianos. Soon theinstruments capturedtheattention ofexperts, toppianistsand musicalauthorities.Around theworld interested peoplewerespeakingabouttheunbelievable instrumentsbuilt by Julius Blüthner in the city of l eipzig.Well known artists like Brahms, Jadason, l iszt, Mahler, Moscheles,nikisch, Rachmaninov, Schumann, andTschaikovsky werewelcomeguestsin theBlüthner house.during their musicaltours theartistsreported
aboutthesemost marvellous instruments. The appointmentas purveyorsto thecourt ofQueen Victoria, the Russian Tsar nicolas II, the danish King, the german emperor,theTurkishSultan and certainly totheKing ofSaxony,
4 of many European kingdoms
flourish today. He used his participation at the trade fairs and exhibitions in Brussels, Amsterdam, Melbourne, Paris, Philadelphia, Sydney and Vienna to showandpresenthis newestinstruments and innovations. The pianosreceivedgreat acclaim for being serious concertinstruments.All first prizes, goldmedalsandany decorations obtained subsequentlyin thehistory ofthefirm, are still listed onthesoundboardofevery Blüthner instrument. Soon themanufacturing facilities becametoosmall for the growing level of production. Julius Blüthner purchasedthe rented workshopand also alarge plot ofland onwhich hebuilt step bystepuntil 1890when heestablishedthenew factory suitable for 1,200 workers, with an85,000m2manufacturing areato house thevarious
underlines theapproval bestowedon Blüthner instruments by the nobility. Motivated byhissuccess,Julius Blüthner startedin 1868tobuild an international salesand distribution network that soonspanned theworld, and which can still be seen to Winner ofmanyinternational awards– First prize at the world expositionin 1900 grand Prix, Paris
production departments.during this time ofrapid growth,it was important for Julius Blüthner tokeep thecompany structured as a family business,andthis attitudecontinued evenafterhis death in 1910.of his8 children (4 girls and4 boys), as wasthecustomofthetime, his sons tookon responsiblepositionsin the company.Julius Blüthner was a strict teacher. All his sons wererequiredto learn thebusinessin detail andgaina thoroughunderstandingoftheentire production process.
on 1st July 1892Max Blüthner started as apartner in the enterprise.l ike his brothers Bruno andRobert,helearnedthe craft of pianobuilding andthenhoned hisskills in l ondon and Paris. Soon Max became thesuccessortohis father.his majortask wasthemanagementofthe technical side oftheinstrument production. Stepby andthe global business restedon the step,theresponsibility for theproduction shouldersofMax andhis brothers Robert and Bruno. now, as Julius Blüthner hadwished,all aspectsof the businesswere beinghanded down tosuccessive generations of the Blüthner family. The advantagesofa family business becameclear during andafter the First World War and also during the economic crisis in 1929. In 1935/36 thegerman leaders selectedBlüthner, well-known as a particularly innova- tive company,for a special task. The specification was tobuild an Max Blüthner, Bruno Blüthner, Robert Blüthner
6 the mostimportant of theseare, to this day, documentedonthe First prize at the world expositionin 1900 grand Prix, Paris soundboard of every piano wemake.
In 1932themerchant andlawyer dr. Rudolph Blüthner-haessler took over the reigns of the company. his was the difficult task of guiding the companythrough the Second World War. With the responsibility tocontinuetobuild theenterpriseaccording tothe traditional Blüthner philosophy,it was with a heavy heart that dr. Blüthner-haessler wastosee thefamilyʼs companycompletely destroyedby fire during an air raid. Totally burnt out, nothing was left apartfromthewalls.
After thewar,manyfriends andcustomersencouragedthefamily to rebuild the company. With determination and a strong vision for thefuture,dr. Rudolf Blüthner-haessler restructuredthecompany and,despiteconflicts with thegerman leaders, undertookthe monumentaltask ofrebuilding thecompany toaninternational standard. It was in 1948that instruments could finally leave the factory again. The company supplied famous conservatories and musicalinstitutions such as theTschaikovsky Conservatory in Moscow and the l eningrad Conservatory (as it was known at that time), whose outstanding pianistsdemonstratedtheprevailing quality oftheinstruments.
extremelylightweight grandpianofor the airship Hindenburg. And so the first Blüthner crossedthe Atlantic ocean in an aircraft where, to the astonishmentofthe world, it wasusedfor thefirst pianoconcert in the air. That perfor- mance wasbroadcast live by63radio stationsaroundthe world. The famous conductor ofthegewandhaus, Blüthner Piano specially built for the music salon Artur nikisch and his sonMitja with two ofthe airship Hindenburg. Blüthner pianos.
7 Committedtotradition – A family businesssince1853
After thedeathofdr. Rudolph Blüthner-haessler onJune 16,1966,hisson Ingbert Blüthner-haessler tookover themanagement.however, in 1972the unlawful leadership andnationalization ofeast germany bythegovernment tookplace.his decision tostayas a managingdirector in thecompany,in spiteofthe inherent pressure anddoubt,wasaneconomically sounddecision andanimportantoneforthefuture. After thefall ofthewall in 1989,Ingbert Blüthner-haessler reorganizedthetraditional company back into a family businessand,like theBlüthner generationsbefore,heextendedthe production capacity andmodernised themanufacture. Soon theconstruction ofa new factory wascrucial. From 1994to1997thefamily plannedandbuilt the new factory in Störmthal near l eipzig. Since 1995Ingbert Blüthner- haessler shares themanagementofthe companywith his two sons, dr. Christian Blüthner-haessler,whostudiedmedicineandeconomics,andKnut Blüthner-haessler, whostudied piano makingandmastered every aspect of piano production. Today dr. Christian Blüthner-haessler is in chargeof the sales andfinancesof thecompany andKnut Blüthner-haessler is in charge of production andall technical aspects.As a result ofthelargedemand andthe interestin Blüthner instruments,thecompanyhas subsidia-riesandservice centresin the United States,great Britain, Russia, France, netherlands and Asia as well as a worldwide networkofBlüthner dealers.
TheBlüthnerfactoryin Leipzig
8 Fromleft toright: 9 Dr. Christian Blüthner-Haessler, Ingbert Blüthner-Haessler, Knut Blüthner-Haessler B lüthner – onmany stagesworldwide generations ofmusiciansandsingers have beendedicatedto thefascinating soundof a Blüthner.
Wilhelm Furtwängler, Theo Adam, Claudio Arrau, emanuelAx,Wilhelm Backhaus,Bela Bartók, Beaux Art Trio, Johannes Brahms, Ferruccio Busoni, halina Czerny-Stefanska,Claude debussy,Marlene dietrich, Werner egk, Carl Flesch, Jean Françaix, Bruno l eonardogelber, Benjaminogigli, Jean gilbert, Ingeborghallstein, Bibi Johns, Wilhelm Kempff,Franz Konvitschny,erika Köth, Franz l ehár, elisabeth l eonskaja,Franz l iszt,nina l izell, José Rodrigues l opez,Peter Maffay, oleg Maisenberg, gustav Mahler, Igor Markevitch, Wayne Marshall, YehudyMenuhin, Mario del Monaco,Václav neumann, Arthur nikisch, Carl A sensationalduo– theworld celebrates orff, hazy osterwald, Josef Pembauer,hermann Marlene Dietrich with her Blüthner in the Prey, SergeiRachmaninov,MaxReger, Arthur glamourof the20thCentury. Rubinstein, WolfgangSauer,Fjodor Schaljapin, dmitri Schostakovich, Peter Schreier, Carl Seemann,Peter Serkin, hugo Steuer, Johann Strauss, Richard Tauber,Robert Teichmüller, The Beatles, Artur Pizarro, Peter I. Tschaikovsky,Richard Wagner, A. l loyd Webber and many more.
“After mycoffeeand cigar Some of the mostpopular songshave beencomposed wewentto oneof the recor- or recordedona Blüthner. ding roomswheretheyhad a Blüthner piano ... Well, thisBlüthner hadthemostbeautiful singingtone I hadeverfound. I becamequiteenthusiasticanddecidedto playmy belovedBarcarolle of Chopin. Thepianoinspired me.I donʼtthinkI ever played better in my life.” 10 Arthur Rubinstein, “My Many Years” (page 281) SergeiProkofiev composingat a Blüthner “I wouldlike togiveyoumy bestcomplimentsfortheexcel- lentimpressionthat I have gained from yourBlüthner grand piano. Its touchisexceptional and itstonerepresentsper- fect beauty.I give youmyabsoluteadmiration forthis instrument” Max Reger
“Marvellous instruments”– Mikhail Pletnev Wilhelm Kempffloved toplaya Blüthner in concert.
11 Only instruments ofchoice quality, whichcarrya legendary name like Blüthner, whichare handcrafted in alimited numberandalwaysfollowthephilosophy ofthefactory, may be called master instruments.
“The ability ofaninstrument toengagean artist in a dialogue throughout hisexploration ofthemusical universe, ashe searchesfortheoptimal interpretation, hasgivenmeeveryjoy and contentmentwhichhas accompanied mein my pianistic life.” Wilhelm Kempff
Blüthner – The birthofa marvellous passion Blüthner instrumentshave provenpopularin conservatoiresand music colleges. They are praised for their singing tone, their responsive action, their excellent repetition, the technical reliability of their components,and for their tuning stability.
12 A pianoplaysa majorrolein thedaily work ofartists andsoloists in manyareasof themusicindustry,anda Blüthner instrument istheperfectcompanionforthe musicprofessional.The promotion ofyoungmusiciansand newmusicis offore- most importance to Blüthner. In addition to the Blüthner piano competition, we haveestablished a seriesofconcerts that offer youngartists andwinners ofnatio- nal andinternational competitions theopportunity toshow their talents.Selected programmesarepublishedunder our label Blüthner Media.
13 For over150years Blüthner instrumentshave proventheir refinement and dependability. Do nothesitatetochoosethebest.Under thehands ofa pianist, theinstrumentisas important as thebrush ofa painter, thechiselof asculptor, orthe voiceofasinger.
"Whenever I have playedaBlüthner onmyconcert tours,it has always proven itself tobe amongthebestand melodiousinstrumentsI haveeverknown." Franz Liszt I nsidethefactory –
only the finest timber, carefully selected fromall overtheworld and seasoned over many years, is usedas thebasisforthe outstandingquality of our instruments. A gentle drying and maturing process ensures that the sensitive membranesofthe cells in the woodremainintact, so thatvibrations canbeconducted without significant loss ofenergy. Using traditional craftsmanship,thesolidrim is assembledin arobust tension-free designthat enhancesresonanceand forms thefirm foundationforthe world-famousBlüthner soundboard.
More than 4,500parts that form a Blüthner pianoarebuilt andassem- bledwith superioraccuracy.The com- bined experienceof generationsof piano makers underlies thespecial knowledgeusedto create the famous Blüthner sound. The soundboard,the heart of every Blüthner instrument, is craftedby themost skilled artisans, leaving nothing tochancebymain- taining thehigheststandardsofquality control.
14 Blüthnerʼs uniqueinstrumentsarecreatedwith the dedication and expertiseof our master craftsmen.
The hammersareafundamental part of the instrument which contributesubstantiallytothe unique Blüthner sound. Crafted fromthefinest Australian felt,archedovera coreof walnut wood, and individually voiced to perfection, the Blüthner hammersstimulate the purest vibrations ofthestrings.These distinctive hammersareconnected to shanksmade from white beech, fitted by hand carefully using traditional natural glue.
Striving for perfection down to the smallest detail is our passion. l ike goldplatingtheinstrument, the voicing of the Blüthner instrument is performed bythe bestamong the best tobring tolife thesoul ofeach instrument, presenting theperfection andbeautyof thesoundto its owner. our passion for excellence,our fascination with detail, and our drive for continuousimprovementhave shaped our philosophy. Tocreate pieces ofthefinestart thatoutlive manygenerationsis our challenge.
15 Classic Edition
Model 1 ebony polish
ConcertGrand Model1 This instrument is themasterpieceof Blüthner, andembodies theknowledgeacquired over thepast150years ofpiano making. orchestras and pianistsalikeare impressedby the powerfulsound, the shadingofthe dynamics andthe outstanding performance of the instrument.“Blüthner instruments canreally sing. This is probably the greatestcomplimentthat canbepaidto an instrument”, wrote Wilhelm Furtwängler in oneof his dedications. We aresure thatthis sentimentisshared bytheartists whoplay this instrument.
18 Semi-ConcertGrand Model2 When you play thisinstrument acompletely new world will openup to you. Youwill play fast scaleswith easeand powerful fortissimo is well within your reach. This instrument will capture your imagination and inspire you with its powerful dynamics and clear tone, allowing for greater freedom of interpretation. Well suitedto solo recitals or as the perfect complement to a chamber orchestra,this piano presents thepianist as atrue master.
Model 2 ebony polish
Boudoir Grand Model 4 This is the most celebrated size for a professional piano. It incorporates the tonal qualities of a concert grand into a maneuvrable size. It will perform well in small hallsas aconcertpianobutalso asapractice instrument thatcanmorethanmeet the needs of the most demanding concert artist. one proud owner wrote: “It canbepowerfulandstrong,spoilyouwith romantic andlyrical sounds,or simply captivate thepianist andtheaudience”.
Model 4 walnut polish
Model 4 19 ebony polish Classic Edition
SalonGrand Model 6 This is the standardsizeofa grandpiano. due to the idealproportionsofthe instrument,thismodel can be built to technical specifications that allow the strings to resonateattheir optimum capacity. Thetonalqualities makethisa concertinstrument suitable for solo recitals or accompaniment in small venuesoreven alarger room of a home. The comfortable and responsive action combined with vibrant tonal character will leave you entirely satisfied.
Model 6 ebony Polish
Model 6 bubinga polish
Model 6 macassar polish
Model 6 20 yew polish Small Grand Model 10 This model isa favouriteinstrumentforthe homeormusic studio, orindeed fora smallhall. The proportions ofthis instrument havebeencarefully plannedtoassuremaximum per- formance. The string lengths have been calculated to use the total surface of the soundboardresultingin a resoundingbut clearbassanda glittering treble.This is the smallestmodel that is fitted with the Aliquot System,which featuresa fourth string in the treble section. These extra strings are not struck by thehammers, butthey resonate in harmony toaddthat exceptional dimension tothe tone.
Model 10 cherry polish
Model 10 white polish
Small Grand Model 11 If it is space that prevents you from putting a grand piano in your home, this instrument may be ideal. It will certainly fit into the smallest corner and you will enjoy all the advantages a grand has to offer: the satisfying touch of the keyboard, the elegance of design that will compliment your home, and a sound that will enchant you. By using the same principles of construction that are applied to the larger instruments, this model leaves nothing to be desired with regard to its tonal character and dynamic range. even its smaller size does not impede its warmbassandrich treble.For its size Model 11 it iscertainly one ofthebest available. ebony polish 21 SuprêmeEdition
QueenVictoria during the the Victorian Age of the 19thcentury, Blüthner waspurveyor to the Royal Court of Queen Victoria. The english Society in this time adored the style of the neo -Renaissance, which expressedthe wealth and the feeling of belongingto the mostimportant nation in the world in a mostconvincing way. Queen Victoria and her princely husbandAlbert defined that period which was later named after them.
This instrument is designed in thestyle ofthis time, executed inprecious rosewood,enhancedwithhand carvedornaments andapplications,with powerfully styledlegs anda finely etchedmusic desk,and perfectly conveysthe philosophy of that period. The styling of this instrument rightfully bearsthe nameQueen Victoria.
Model S 2 22 QueenVictoria Rosewood Julius Blüthner It israrefora familybusinesstomaintainexcellencelastingformore thana century,but Julius Blüthner, thefounder ofthe legendary piano company, createdabusiness dynasty which hasachievedjust that.
Julius Blüthner revolutionized the art of piano making,creating instruments that are enduring examples ofoutstandingcraftsmanshipandadmiredfor their unparalleled beautyoftone.
In this spirit, Julius Blüthner's vision and understandingof piano building have been transformed, five generationslater,byhisgreat-greatgrandsonsinto this outstandinginstrument, showcasing his original aesthetic designs for the music stand,legs,andnumerousother hand-crafteddetails.
It is a homage to his achievements and a testimony of the deeprespect and gratitude forthe legendary founder ofBlüthner pianos. every one of these outstanding masterpieces features distinctive historic details and the unsurpassable sound that embodies the timelessness of the centuries.
Model S 4 Julius Blüthner 23 SuprêmeEdition
Whichever instrument of this collection suits your style, all represent the finest in piano making: mature construction, the finest quality materials, excellent workmanship, a wide dynamic range, a responsivetouch,a full sound,stability oftuning, anda preciselyfunctioning action lastingmanyyears.
Jubilee The150thanniversary ofourcompanywasthe perfectopportunity torelease this beautiful addition totheSuprême collection.
The remarkable feature of this piano is the very ornate iron harp castingthat hasbeentakenfrom the classic design originally producedfor the 50thanniversary in 1903. The octagonal legs are a stylish shape, reminscent of the traditional designof the early daysofpiano making.A specially decorated music desk adds to the splendour of theinstrument.
Model S 6 24 ebony polish LouisXIV The exterior of this breathtaking instrument hasbeendesignedin the style of the fanciful French king. The grace and delicateness of the ornamentation is based on elementsofthe Rococo style.The legs, lyre, musicdesk andtherim are decoratedwith carvings taste- fully gilded with real gold. To re- produce the original style and designofthis instrument is both ademandingandsatisfying task.
Model S 6 rococco
Ambassador This instrument is available in dif- ferent sizes and is decoratedwith a specially designed cut of veneer. Precious rosewood is laid out in a fishbone designin the styleof tradi- tional Frenchfurniture. Theshading ofthewoodcan be adjustedtoyour personal taste.This designis made for the 190 cm, 210 cm and 238 cm sizes.
Model S 2 Rosewood polish 25 SuprêmeEdition
KaiserWilhelm II. This is a traditional style from around the turn of the nineteenth century. This master piece of design displays the grandeur of the instrument and the owner.The turned legs,heavy lyre, and decorative music desk bring back memories of imperial times. This instrument is available in traditional black aswell asother veneers.
Model S 6 walnut burl polish
President This instrument is based on our successful construction techniques, but its appearance is enhanced by using precious veneers like bubinga, birdʼs eye maple, burr walnut or mahogany.It isfittedwith mouldings around the key bottom, a special chamfer around the top and a fine ornamental musicdesk.
26 Model S 6 ebony polish Senator This instrument is built on the construction principles found in the Model 6. The outside is ex- quisitely fashioned. The precious rosewood veneer has inlaid sec- tions ofleather in Russiangreen, stampedwith golden ornamenta- tion. It is a magnificent instru- ment well suited to an elegant home.
Model S 6 palisander
NicolausII. This model was first made for the Russian Tsar nicolas II. The exqui- sitely fashioned panels are madeof burr walnut, framed with a fine li- ning of maple.The basic veneer is madeof French walnut. All of this marquetryis individually handcraf- ted in our factory by our master piano makers.
Model S 10 walnut burl inl ay 27 UprightPianos
ProfessionalUprightPiano ModellS This pianoisthecrowning achievement ofourupright pianocollection, offeringtheplayer anenvelo- pingbeautyof tonein all registersandafullness ofsoundthat is only comparable tothe experienceof our grand pianos. Where the dimensions of a standard full sized upright piano have long been set across themusical world, our craftsmenhavelengthened theheight,width, anddepthofthis instru- ment in this beautifully proportioned design. Founded on 150years of piano-making experience, this instrument has anextraordinary musicalcapacity andisanideal centerpieceforanymusicroom.
Model S Professional Upright Piano ebony polish 28 ProfessionalUprightPiano ModelB This piano epitomizestechnical and musical perfection, offering an impressive sound thatis rich in tonal colour,with a very responsiveaction. Where the available space will not accommo-date a grand piano, this instrument will be an appropriate substitute. This piano can also be fitted with a sostenuto pedal, which enables the player to hold a note whilst playingother notesin the usual manner. A practice pedal is normally fitted. When pressed the instrument plays much more softly to appease sensitive neighbours. Available in a Model B range of fin-ishes from black to ebony polish mahogany or burr walnut, this instrument can also be fitted with a decorative topdoor panel.
Model B mahogany polish
Model B cherry satin 29 UprightPianos
Professional Upright ModelA Thedesign ofthisinstrument isbasedonmany years of experience in piano manufacturing. The sensitivity ofthesound-boardrespondsto the player's every intention, creating the desired dynamicsand tonalcolours,andfulfil- ling the role of a small grand. The touch re- spondssympathetically to the playerʼswishes, from a mostdelicate pianissimo to a powerful forte. Available in a range of finishes from blacktomahoganyorburr walnut,this instru- ment can also be fitted with a decorative top door panel. A favourite amongthe Blüthner Model A instruments. ebony polish
Model A 30 walnut polish Model A camphor polish
Model A Special Edition Whether you desire a classic, elegant, or extravagant design, we will manufacturea bespokeinstrument tosuit your taste. Select one of our existing upright piano models or realize your own dream. We can craft your piano so that hardly a desire will remain unfulfilled. We can also craft your piano case in your favourite wood veneerand finish.
Model A Gustav Mahler
Model A 31 Franz Schubert UprightPianos
Model C ebony polish
Upright Piano Model C Crafted in the traditional way using our time- honouredpiano makingprinciples, this piano compareswell with thelarger models. In spite of its reduced height, the Model C is a convincing instrument with a full and well- balanced tone throughout the octaves. The quickand dependableactionwill enhanceyour performancegivingyoua newlevel ofcontrol, whether playing at home or in a professional situation.
Model C alder waxed 32 Model C cherry polish Model C walnut polish
Upright Piano Model D With thenew Model d, Blüthner has createda designobject with a pure linear form.Thesubstantial,square frameandthedelicatesubtletiesreduce, in thespirit ofpurism.
In the tradition of the Bauhaus principle "less is more", the time- less, modern design of this model fit anyroomaestheticand lifestyle. These details are apparent in the functional structure of the fall- board,which providesaninstan- taneous sense of elegant luxury, while simultaneously functioning asanintegrated musicstand.exclu- sivestainlesssteelelementsgivethe piano the purist aesthetic. This newest addition to the Blüthner upright line of pianos portrays a successfulcombinationof innovati- on, classical elegance and traditio- nal craftsmanship. The first edi- Model D ebony polish tions are available from Blüthner in either ebony orwhite polish. 33 WhAT IS SPeCIAl ABoUT A gRAnd PIAno
grand anduprightpianosconsist essentiallyofthree subassemblies.Blüthner coordinates them with one anotherin mutualharmonytoguaranteethelegenda- ry Blüthner sound.
1.The back and the castiron frame have to take up the enormous tension of the strings that comes up to almost20tonswhenthepiano istuned to440hz. Thepre-crownedsoundboardissolidly glued in place onthe backassemblywith theiron framepositioned directly above. Circumferential supports or a frame liner of red beech fit exactly to the curvature of the
wood. When combinedtothe outer rim construction thereis a total of28 layersoflaminated woodfor the grandpiano. Thetensileforces are distributed fromthe rim assem- bly tothecrossbeambystrongback posts. Theseback posts are manufactured with a solid centre of red beechwith pine laminated to each side. It makesit virtually impossible to allow movement caused by humidity changes. It also ensures a permanent and solid fit for the boltsof the iron frame.The fan-like arrangement of the back posts stiffens the rim and preventsdeforming byoutside forces. All joints areformedin the traditional dovetail bolted connection by which the backpostsareanchoredin the inner rim wall. This type of joint guaranteesthe durability of the Blüthner piano which is already le- gendary.
soundboard and fix the frame at the proper height. This strongdesign,quiteunique toBlüthner, captures thesoundboard, giving it thefreedomtodevelopthe full spectrumofthe string vibrations andnot beab- sorbedby the load bearing components.Such a sys- tem ensures a more complete transmission of the string vibration without interference or tonal loss. Theinner rim consistsof18layersof laminatedhard-
34 2. The iron frametakes ontheforcefrom thestrings undertension and mustbefirmly connectedwith the inner casingunderstructure. Blüthner hasdeveloped aniron framethat is reinforced alongthemain ten- silelines offorce.It isnotonly importantto have an appealing and timeless design;the frame also hasto be able toaffecttheinstrumentʼsacoustics.Blüthnerʼs manyyears ofexperience andknowledgein iron fra- me design ensure thatnoaudibleamountofthe tonal spectrumis lost.In fact, theiron framedoes indeed contribute tothe tonal development ofthe Blüthner piano. All fitting of the iron frame is donein house.This means that over 600holesfor pins, tuning pins, and bolts are drilled by hand usinga numberof control measuresto ensure preciseness.A full mirror finish is the final touch to this work of art. Many con- trol measurementsand quality check of materials and fittings are necessary in order to build a piano that is worthy of joining the ranks of the Blüthner tradition.
3. ThePin Block orwrest plankhasthe specialtaskof banded anddisplacedat90degreestothedirection of acting asareceptaclefor thetuning pins andto keep the wood fiber. This ensuresthat the tuning pin is them very tight, to hold the string tension and still solidly heldonall sides andthattuningstability will allow thepiano tobe tuned. Blüthner gives anadditi- be long lived. Blüthner continues to set the pacein onalsupport ofa hardwood bushingwhere thetuning this area with the latest results of research that are pin passesthroughtheiron frame,which aidsin red- combinedwithtraditional productiontechniquesand ucingthebendingloadofthepin. The wrestplankis methods. madeof14highly compressedhardwoodlayers cross-
35 4.The soundboard:At thebeginning of piano ma- king the soundboard consisted solely of a thin wooden board, stiffened with bars glued on the underside and the bridgeson the upper side. Fur- therdevelopment wasderived fromthesoundboard of a violin with its spherical crown. however the soundboardof a violin is madeof a thick piece of woodbeing shaped bygrinding, chipping andsan- ding into its final form. A piano soundboard is madefrom a thin board being bent by force into this form. This method however produces disad- vantages comparabletothosewhich onewill expe- rience whenyou try to puta sheet of paperon top ofa ball. Studies madeby Blüthnerʼs research and develop- ment department have proven that tensions and compressionsdevelop on the edges that are inho- mogeneousand not controllable. In contrast, the on of the soundboard remains intact over the de- soundboardthatBlüthner hasdeveloped hasa cy- cades.In fact, evenunder difficult climatic conditions lindrical curvatureso that the tension of the sound- the curvature will remain in a constantform since not board can beexactly defined. The ribs are planed only the rib structure will hold it in place but also the tofit thecurvature neededandtherefore thetensi- redbeechinner rim ispre-formedto the correctangle to receive and retain the soundboardʼs curve tension. Because the soundboard is pre-stressedin this fashion it can be fitted exactly and re- mainundercurvetensionper- manently. The bridge, of course, is adapted to the tensi- on and curvature of the soundboard in its optimum position. This ensures that string vibrations in their full spectrum are transferredtothe soundboard. By utilizing the resonatingsurface, thespecial design oftheBlüthner sound- board generates tone signifi- cantly better. This guarantees every Blüthner piano its le- gendary sound. The bridge is constructed from european maple. This material is strong andconducts thestringvibra- tions well. In the upper sec- tion, the bridge hasbeencap- ped with cross-laminated european maple. This ensures solidly fixed pins for many years to come.
36 5. The Patented Aliquot System: generations of piano makers have beenconstantly attempting to improve the quality of their instruments. Julius Blüthner made an important contribution with thedevelopmentoftheAli- quot System. Patented for the first time in 1878, it was one morestepthat provided Blüthnerʼs well known warm and romantic sound. Currently, the Patented Aliquot System employsanaddi- tionalfourthstring in the treb- le section attached directly to the bridge that is not struck by rience this special effect with many of Beethovenʼs the hammers. The fourth string is stimulatedto vi- compositions giving an added dimension in tone bratethrough resonanceofthethree strings that are colour and dynamics. Another factor that is a great struck which results in an acoustical system enri- advantageis that all Blüthner strings are individu- chingthe overtonespectrum.It produces a very dy- ally hitched.ThisallowsfortheAliquot Systemtode- namic sound, which is audible over a wide range. veloptoits optimumaswell as guaranteeingthatthe This uniqueeffectconveystheresonant trebleofthe strings aretuned exactly. Blüthner piano.Asanexample,it ispossible toexpe-
6. The Action, including the ac- tion and damper mechanism, is the component of the piano through which the pianist can physically connect with his or her Blüthner piano. Therefore it is not surprising that Blüthner has gone to great lengths to design this very sensitive part of the in- strumentto withstand enormous amounts of use and stress. The key frame is carefully fittedtothe key bed to ensure optimum per- formance. The key bed is constructed with alternate layers For best intonation ofthe hammers,theelasticity of of red beechand pine resulting in a high degreeof the felt is adjusted to the needsof the instrument. stability from humidity changesand use. naturally This is accomplishedin several steps with the ideal tanned highquality calfskintrim on the lodgepoints to develop the Blüthner tone to its full beauty and ofthe keyframe ensureaquietmovement.Suchsolid resonance.Blüthnerʼsvoicingspecialists performthis construction also results in long lastingregulationof task using special techniques to adjust the hardness the Renner action and keys. Blüthnerʼs technicians and elasticity of eachhammer.The density and size skillfully regulate the action to exacting specifica- ofthe hammerisan important factorthevoicermust tions that ensure the highest degree of precision, deal with also in this process. The larger hammers adjustment andregulation. It is also important that are madewith thetraditional inner andouterlayers sensitivekeybalancing isperformedtoexactingspe- of felt which help to stabilize the elasticity of the cifications that ensureeaseof repetition and control hammerand aidinproducing the full rich toneof the since this is the basis for long and constant play. Blüthner piano.All ofthesefactors combine toform Again, it isgood tostressthatit isanoldtradition at a basisfor long lasting and finely modulated ham- Blüthner to regulate their instruments at least three mers. 37 timesor morebefore leaving thefactory. DesignYour OwnPiano here we offer aunique opportunity. You are invited to create your own masterpiecewith a wide selection of elegant and modern elements. our instruments can be highly tailored to your taste with various hand-carvedpiano legs,music desksand lyre combinations. In addition, our exquisiteselection ofwood veneers, finished in a classic polish or satin, can beappliedto theentire piano case,or simply designed to accentindividual details, suchasthe underlid, cheek blocks,fallboard, or inner rim.
Music DeskStyles
Julius Concert KaiserWilhelm Modern
Legstyles LyreStyles
Jubilee KaiserWilhelm Concert Jubilee KaiserWilhelm Concert 42 Veneers
LIG HT W ALNUT DARK RO SEW O O D SANTO S RO SEW O O D M A C A SSAR BUBINGA PO LISH
W ALNUT W ALNUT BURL PYRAMID MAHO G ANY LIGHT M A HO G A NY DARK MAHOG ANY
YEW C HERRY NATURAL O AK W AXED ALDER W ENGE
More colour samplesavailable onrequest. Printed samplesorcoloursmaydiffer fromoriginals.
TechnicalData
Model l ength Width Weight(net) cm inches cm inches kg lbs 1 280 9ʼ 2” 160 63.0” 525 1160 2 238 7ʼ 8” 162 63.8” 405 890 4 210 6ʼ10” 154 60.6” 345 780 6 190 6ʼ 3” 152 59.8” 330 730 10 166 5ʼ 5” 152 59.8” 290 640 Grand Pianos 11 154 5ʼ 1” 152 59.8” 280 620
Model height Width Weight(net) depth cm inch cm inch kg lbs cm inch S 145,6 57.3” 157,0 61.8” 320 705 71,0 28.0” B 132,5 52.2” 151,5 59.6” 270 595 62,5 24.6” A 124,5 49.0” 151,5 59.6” 250 550 62,5 24.6” C 118,0 46.2” 154,0 60.6” 240 530 62,5 24.6” Upright Pianos d 116,0 45.7” 154,0 60.6” 250 550 62,0 24.4” M: +3467916 2730 - T: +3495260 8357 - [email protected]