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.
Piano manufacturing is, by its nature, a materials-intensive craft. A modern grand piano contains roughly 12,000 individual components. It requires carefully selected hardwoods — spruce, maple, beech, walnut — sourced from forests in multiple countries. It uses felt, leather, metal alloys, and chemical finishes. Building one well takes skilled labor spanning months.
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