Are Any Pianos Still Made in the USA?

If you’ve ever walked into a piano store, chances are you’ve heard someone ask, “Are any pianos still built in the United States?” It’s a question asked almost daily—and with good reason.

There was once a golden era when America was home to hundreds of piano manufacturers, led by the legendary Steinway & Sons in New York. Their domestic dominance continues after more than a century, with American pianos setting the global standard for quality and craftsmanship.

But in the 1960s, everything began to change. Japanese companies like Yamaha and Kawai began exporting pianos to the US market (some alleged below their wholesale costs). Their efforts ushered in an era of cost-focused production. For many, these newer, mass-produced instruments lacked the soul and inspiration that once sparked a lifelong love of playing.

Meanwhile, American brands like Steinway stayed true to quality, even as Eastern European makers—Estonia, Bohemia, and others—entered the U.S. market with export-focused models. Though profitable for retailers, these imports often left buyers underwhelmed, failing to match the rich sound and durability of the classic American piano.

A Quiet Comeback

So, are we witnessing a new era of American piano craftsmanship? It seems so.

During a time when marketing often outshined substance, a handful of companies quietly doubled down on American engineering—and it is paying off. This resurgence in U.S. piano design  continues to grow, largely driven by innovation and a commitment to quality.

Steinway & Sons sparked this movement in the late 1980s with the creation of the Boston piano—an entirely new line designed from the ground up. It was the company’s first attempt at crafting a world-class production piano at a more accessible price point, offering much of the Steinway DNA at nearly half the cost.

By 1992, Steinway had not only met this ambitious goal but expanded it further. Under the leadership of Susan Kenagy, the Essex line was introduced in 2000, offering a warm, musical tone, longer sustain, and a more expressive touch. Designed to outperform similarly priced Yamaha models, Essex quickly became a favorite among home players, institutions, and teachers alike.

The American Touch

Today, Essex pianos enjoy a loyal following from students to professionals—and many institutions trust them for their proven durability and value.

Other brands have followed suit. Samick, a global piano builder, made a major investment by relocating its U.S. operations to Gallatin, Tennessee, where it “deluxed” its Asian-built pianos. Skilled American technician added final touches to each instrument before they were sent to dealers and consumers—adding a layer of craftsmanship that sets these pianos apart from brands that simply shipped their instruments across the Pacific.

Advertising vs. Quality

In an industry where some companies spend massive sums on endorsements, product placements, and even giveaways to boost visibility, it’s refreshing to see manufacturers like Steinway and Samick prioritize quality over hype. After all, wouldn’t it be easier to build a better piano than to pay for fame?

Celebrating Our Golden Age

Today, there are still affordable American built pianos available used. The better maintained specimens can offer better build, sound, and performance than budget-built pianos from Japan and China at a fraction of the price.

One of the reasons so many people prefer American designed or built pianos is that they were made “for the Western ear.” Noted for being either over brilliant or bright to too subdued without character, Japanese builders initially designed their pianos for their domestic market. Culturally, this music is more bell and chime influenced, making it sound better for that traditional music. Companies like Yamaha have tried to tone down the brightness, especially on their more expensive pianos, while most reviewers still note that their lower priced new pianos still sound more thin than their pricier cousins.

Kawai appears to have taken a different approach. Changes in their hammer design and using plastic parts in the action mechanism instead of wood may have reduced the energy that goes into the strings. While this makes the brightness go away, it leaves us with a tone that most regard as thin or unexpressive.

An American-built used piano may offer a sound more like the music you like to listen to. Finding one well-built and properly cared for can provide significant savings over even the cheaper Japanese and Chinese new models.

It is important to work with a professional when you consider purchasing any used piano. Used Piano Center does a complete inspection of every used piano and stands behind every sale with the exclusive STAR Guarantee. Be sure any used piano you buy has been checked for mold, rodents, and insects, like termites.

With the Spirit and Character of America

Yes, pianos are still designed in America—and at prices that cater to everyone from beginners to concert artists. The challenge lies in looking past flashy marketing and focusing on the substance of the instruments themselves.

Brands like Steinway & Sons, Boston, Essex, and Samick’s Tennessee-finished models continue to raise the bar for quality and performance. In fact, it’s fair to say that some of the best pianos these companies have ever built are being built today.

Though first conceived in Italy, the piano was perfected in America. And in a time when many builders chase lower costs, it’s reassuring to know that true American craftsmanship in piano making not only survives—but thrives.