kepecs@sun.uucp (Jon Kepecs) (10/16/85)
I really don't think the brand of piano is that important as each individual piano is quite unique. A good technician can make a tremendous difference in the sound, as well as the hall you play in. As far as Bosendoerfers, I wouldn't get one if I had that kind of money to throw around, at any rate sight unseen. I've played on several Imperials and have not been impressed. When I was in music school, a whole bunch of Bosendoerfer uprights had to be sent back due to structural defects. My favorite piano to date was a relatively new Bechstein. As far as Steinways, I would recommend something that postdates the accelerated action, which was developed in the early 30's I think. The newer Steinways used teflon bushings which were a disaster (I think they've rectified the situation now however). Anyway, the only "right" way to buy a piano is to go around and play a lot of them until you find one that feels right and sounds right to you. Then, get a technician to evaluate it.