Once a dominant force in American industry, piano manufacturing employed tens of thousands and was a cornerstone of the economy. However, only two companies remain today: Steinway & Sons in New York and Mason & Hamlin.
The Golden Age of the Piano Industry
In the late 1700s, pianos were predominantly made in Europe, particularly in Vienna and Great Britain. By the early 18th century, the instrument had crossed the Atlantic to the United States, where it quickly gained popularity.
According to historian James Parton, by 1867, the piano was deemed almost as essential to the household as the kitchen stove.
The Beginning of the Decline
The 1920s marked the beginning of a downturn in the piano industry. The Great Depression further worsened this decline, with annual sales plummeting from over 350,000 units in 1929 to fewer than 60,000 by 1931.
This drastic drop led to an 85% reduction in the piano workforce. World War II increased the industry’s woes as factories shifted production to military gliders and coffins. The 1960s saw another blow to the industry as record players’ growing popularity and rock music diverted attention from pianos and classical music.
How U.S. Piano Manufacturers Are Surviving the Times
The last standing U.S. piano manufacturers still continue to see moderate success. While Steinway & Sons holds the larger market share, Mason & Hamlin remains a boutique operation, producing about 2.5 pianos weekly.
Today, they face a new challenge, competing with modern technologies like video games and smartphones that occupy an increasing share of consumers’ leisure time. Although the golden era of pianos may never return, these companies continue to create instruments with timeless appeal.
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