"New model just in"- Gors & Kallmann grand

[sclangley]

I haven't bought a piano for 20 years and now is the time. I was thinking of a Yamaha but fainting at the price and a retailer has offered a "new in the UK" Gors and Kallmann grand. The sound was ok (ish) and I was told "all the concert pianists" are buying these. Not convinced. The Gors and Kallmann website doesnt even feature a grand.

Does anyone know anything about this model? Advice really appreciated as after 20 years I don't want to make a mistake

[PianoGuy]

..... a retailer has offered a "new in the UK" Gors and Kallmann grand. The sound was ok (ish) and I was told "all the concert pianists" are buying these.

What utter tosh.

They're standard Chinese fare of half-decent quality imported by Piano Warehouse. The uprights that I've tuned have been competent but unremarkable. I would imagine a grand to be in the same class.

[sclangley]

Thanks! Think I got over excited at the idea of being able to play again and buy a piano and listened to the sales pitch. I know everyone has their favourites but I want something that will just stay with me - not looking to upgrade. So as long as I play it - I assume a second hand (or new if I hoard my pennies) yamaha is a safe bet?

[PianoGuy]

I assume a second hand (or new if I hoard my pennies) yamaha is a safe bet?

It should be. Yams are my favourite, but try a new Kawai (older ones are way behind the latest) or a good Chinese from a good dealer who will put in the required amount of prep-work before sale. For small grands, the new Perzinas are very good value and are variously badged as Gehr.Steinberg, and Eavestaff. Don't forget the Koreans such as Young-Chang who make credible Yam clones, Samick (Reid-Sohn) and Daewoo (Royale, Sojin, Broadwood).

Once you've got a shortlist of pianos that you like, get advice from a trusted source before buying.

It's a good idea to debate on this forum, but meantime get yourself a good tuner-technician ready to check out any potential purchase. If you don't have close friends with pianos and can't get a recommended tuner that way, contact the most prestigious music school or most expensive independent school in the area and ask who they use. Places like that rarely can afford to make mistakes with piano maintenance.

[sclangley]

Thank you very much. I will now go and investigate. Sadly no piano playing friends but I will make sure I get some advice (and not fall for any more sales hype...) !