As we approach the end of another year, our dedicated team of piano connoisseurs has curated a list of the most sought-after grand pianos of 2023.
The selection of pianos is based on the number purchased throughout the year by music enthusiasts and discerning pianists and is comprised of both new and pre-owned models.
Read on to discover the Best of 2023: Grand Piano edition.
New Grand Pianos
No. 1 – Kawai GL10
One of the most popular new grand pianos of 2023 is the Kawai GL10. This is largely due to its size, its price point and the fact it’s made by one of the world’s renowned piano makers Kawai.
The GL10 is a model selected by professional musicians and amateurs. This model also is available with the headphone functionality feature which is called the ATX4 system This function makes it a great and versatile option for those who want a grand piano but perhaps have limited space and need to play and practice quietly, without disturbing neighbours, other family members etc.
No. 2 – Shigeru Kawai SK2 & SK3
Other popular new pianos from 2023 are the handcrafted Kawai models from the Shigeru Kawai range. These models have proved exceptionally popular throughout 2023 with a wide variety of clients such as pianists, professional musicians, schools, colleges, churches and many other musically oriented spaces.
This is largely due to the quality of their action responsiveness and tone and again, being a Kawai product, they represent very good value for money in comparison to other handcrafted pianos at this size. The use of carbon fibre parts within the action are testament to Kawai’s forward-thinking approach and being sustainable in the future.
Second Hand Grand Pianos
No. 1 – Steinway & Sons Model B-211
The most popular and most desirable preowned piano of 2023 is the Steinway and Sons Model B-211. There is no question that the Steinway Model B is the number 1 choice for professional pianists and musicians looking for a high quality, handcrafted piano for their domestic setting.
The reason this model is very popular with musicians is mainly down to the fact that most of the world-renowned concert venues will have a Steinway Model D concert grand piano on its stage. As the Model D is 9ft in length, it is not practical for most to have this sizable object in their home, so the next best alternative naturally falls to the Steinway Model B.
Smaller and more intimate concert and recital rooms usually would opt for a piano smaller than 9 feet in length so the Steinway & Sons Model B makes an excellent choice for these types of venues. The other main reason why preowned Steinway Model B’s are so popular is simply the fact that a new Steinway Model B retails at over £120,000.
No. 2 – Steinway & Sons Model O-180
It is no surprise that this model has become one of the most popular Steinway’s available on the market. The Model O-180 has always been a highly desirable instrument for over a century and this is largely due to its size. The Model O-180 is the largest of the three small grand pianos which Steinway make.
For most, this size piano fits comfortably into a standard family home and once again, makes for a safe and secure financial investment if purchased correctly. Now that a new Steinway Model O-180 retails at £100,000, discerning buyers have come to discover that an excellent condition preowned Steinway Model O can be just as good or even better than a new one and that’s before taking into consideration the cost saving benefit.
No. 3 – Yamaha C3
The other popular pre-owned grand piano of 2023 is the Yamaha C3. This piano was known once as the world’s best-selling grand piano due to its versatility functionality and reliability. This model can be found in music venues, homes, schools and conservators across the world, and it’s largely respected by amateur pianist and professional pianists alike.