Steinway & Sons, Images of America

This history of the iconic piano brand chronicles the story of an immigrant family, American ingenuity, and more than a century of musical excellence.

The legendary piano maker Steinway & Sons holds a unique place in American history. The name alone conjures many things: a symbol of class and elegance, an American success story, an area of New York City, and the height of craftsmanship. From their factory in Queens, located on Steinway Place, the company has touched the hearts of millions across the world, from piano teachers and students to world-class musicians, and from salespeople to artisans, audiences, and music lovers.

After leaving his native Germany for America in 1850, Henry E. Steinway established his new enterprise with a simple but ambitious mission “to build the best piano possible.” In the late 19th century, Steinway emerged as the standard-bearer in piano design and manufacturing, outshining and outlasting other brands including Chickering and Weber. Today, the Steinway piano is still built by hand in New York City according to the same stringent processes developed by Henry E. Steinway and his sons more than a century ago.