Blüthner is one of the most highly respected piano manufacturers in the world. It was founded in Leipzig, Germany in 1853 by Julius Blüthner and remains a family business to this day. It has been embraced by great composers and artists such as Debussy, Rachmaninov, Liszt, Wilhelm Kempff, the Beatles and Sir Andrew Lloyd Weber. Blüthner pianos are a prominent feature in famous concert halls across the world. 

In the first year of production, Julius Blüthner’s factory made ten pianos – eight grand pianos and two square pianos. His instruments were quickly recognised by experts, top pianists and musical authorities for their outstanding technical and musical qualities. Soon, the manufacturing facilities were expanded to accommodate the increasing demand.

The strength of the family business saw the company through the difficult times of World War II in which an air raid completely destroyed all facilities. It was a monumental task to rebuild the company which today, is managed by Ingbert Blüthner-Haessler and his two sons, Dr Christian Blüthner-Haessler and Knut Blüthner-Haessler.

As a result of the large demand and the interest in Blüthner instruments, the company has subsidiaries and service centres in the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, France, Netherlands, Asia and now Australia as well as a worldwide network of Blüthner dealers.

Today Blüthner pianos are hand-made in Germany to the highest technical specifications and the most stringent quality control with an eye for detail and a passion for excellence. More than 4500 parts form a Blüthner piano and they are built and assembled with superior accuracy. Due to these high standards, only four hundred pianos are made each year.

The Blüthner piano is appreciated particularly for its warm, rich tone and superior craftsmanship, which has been confirmed time and again by professional and international opinion. Its reputation is built upon a long tradition of careful manufacturing and particular attention to soundboard design. Many of the 150,000 Blüthners are played by well-known musicians who have unanimously praised them and certainly agree with what Wilhelm Furtwängler wrote: ‘Blüthner instruments can really sing. This is probably the greatest compliment that can be paid to an instrument.’

Piano Time is proud to be the Australian distributor for Blüthner, and its range of grand and upright pianos can now be seen and played in its showroom at 224 Clarendon St, South Melbourne. Please feel free to contact us for a free brochure.