A Rare Glimpse into the Historic Steinway Piano Factory
In 1981, Dennis Chupp had the opportunity to receive immersive training at the Steinway & Sons Factory in New York, New York. Photos from this trip were thought to be lost for good; however, Carol Chupp recently came across an album of slides. In this album were long-lost photos from Dennis’ trip to New York! We are pleased to share this historic snapshot of piano history with you in this article.
Pictured is Dennis completing action regulation training at the New York Steinway Factory. This training stint was made possible by Mr. Ed Hendricks of Downers Grove, Illinois. Ed was a longtime Steinway & Sons dealer and had also served as national Vice-President of Steinway & Sons marketing. Ed’s assistance led to not only this training opportunity, but also continued direct instruction by Freddie Drasche, a legend of Steinway & Sons voicing and regulation.
“Bob Maffa, assistant head of quality control. This critical step was where the final tone regulation, action regulation, and damper regulation were all completed. Bob was the person I received most of my instruction from during my short time at the factory.” – Dennis
“Steinway factory head service technician Joe Bisceglie. (In the white shirt and tie) One of my notes lists his title as “special projects engineer”. The other man is another trainee. Joe also helped train me. He took us out to lunch numerous times to his favorite Italian restaurant on Steinway’s tab!” – Dennis
Joe talking at his desk. Although the photo is a bit blurry, you can pick out various blueprints, log books, and a well-organized command station. As you glance through the photos, it is evident that the Steinway Factory during this time was a well-run, yet very old-school operation. A true snapshot of a moment in industry history!
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- “I can’t recall his name, but he was in charge of the damper department.” – Dennis
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- Factory technician hanging hammers on shanks. At this point in time, Steinway still manufactured their own action parts. Today, they are supplied by Renner, which was recently purchased by Steinway Musical Instruments.
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- Working the rim press. This photo highlights the intensive manual labor that went into piano manufacturing during this era.
About Us: Since 1975, Chupp’s Piano Service, Inc. has been specializing in the full rebuilding and restoration of vintage grand pianos. Located in the heart of Northern Indiana, our work has grown to become the preferred choice of numerous concert venues, institutions, and pianists around the world. We understand the nuances and exacting precision needed to ensure a piano that is truly tailor-made for your tastes and playing preferences. We are proud to continue the historic tradition of fine craftsmanship and dedication to quality that families like the Steinways have pioneered.
Founded by Master Piano Technician Dennis Chupp, our team is made up of top piano specialists. Our work continues to be executed with a focus on the piano as a musical instrument foremost in mind. From pianos destined for a loving home to those crated for the concert stage, we strive to complete the finest work possible. For more information about our craft, feel free to get in touch with us via email or phone. If you are seeking a piano that has already been restored, our facility in New Paris, Indiana features one of the largest selections of fully restored Steinway & Sons pianos anywhere in the Midwest. Click to view our selection of premium restored Steinway & Sons Grands, Pre-Owned Yamaha, and many other fine pianos.
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