Chickering Pianos – a Beautiful Sound for over 150 Years

Chickering & Sons was an American piano manufacturer located in Boston, Massachusetts. The company was founded in 1823 by Jonas Chickering, with a history as a cabinetmaker and piano builder. Chickering was a pioneer in piano manufacturing, and he introduced many innovations that are still used today. These innovations included the use of a one-piece cast-iron frame, overstrung strings, and a new action mechanism. Chickering’s pianos were known for their superior sound and craftsmanship. They were among the most popular pianos in the world.

Innovative Instruments

Chickering & Sons made a variety of other musical instruments in addition to pianos. These included organs, harmoniums, harpsichords, and celestas. The company also made a variety of other products, such as furniture, organs, and piano actions.

Chickering & Sons was a pioneer in the development of a number of new musical instruments. In 1826, the company introduced the first piano with a one-piece cast-iron frame. This innovation made pianos stronger and more durable, and it helped to improve the sound of the piano. In 1852, the company introduced the first piano with overstrung strings. This innovation gave the piano a wider dynamic range. This made it possible to play a wider variety of music.

Chickering & Sons was also a leader in the development of new piano actions. In 1853, the company introduced the first piano with a new action mechanism that was designed to improve the touch and response of the piano. This innovation made it easier to play the piano, and it helped to improve the overall performance of the instrument.

Acceptance

Chickering & Sons continued to grow and prosper throughout the 19th century. The company won numerous awards at international expositions, and its pianos were used by some of the most famous musicians of the day, including Frédéric Chopin, Franz Liszt, and Johannes Brahms.

Milestones and Owners – 1800s

The Chickering piano brand name has been owned by a number of different companies over the years. Here is a list of the most notable owners:

1823-1853: The company was founded in 1823 by Jonas Chickering, a cabinetmaker and piano builder. Chickering was a pioneer in piano manufacturing, and he introduced many innovations that are still used today. These innovations included the use of a one-piece cast-iron frame, overstrung strings, and a new action mechanism. Chickering’s pianos were known for their superior sound and craftsmanship, and they quickly became one of the most popular pianos in the world.

1853-1890: The company was reorganized as Chickering & Sons in 1853 following the destruction of the company’s factory in December 1852 in a massive fire. Chickering & Sons was owned by Jonas Chickering’s son, George Chickering. During this time, the company continued to grow and prosper, and it became one of the leading piano manufacturers in the world.

1890-1910: Chickering & Sons was owned by a group of investors. During this time, the company continued to produce high-quality pianos, but it faced increasing competition from foreign manufacturers.

Milestones and Owners – 1900s

1910-1930: Chickering & Sons was owned by the Aeolian Company. During this time, the company continued to produce high-quality pianos, but it was also forced to make some changes in order to compete with foreign manufacturers. For example, the company began to produce some of its pianos overseas.

1930-1950: Chickering & Sons was owned by the American Piano Company. During this time, the company continued to produce high-quality pianos, but it also faced a number of challenges, including the Great Depression and World War II.

1950-1970: Chickering & Sons was owned by the Baldwin Piano Company. The company continued to produce high-quality pianos, but it faced increasing competition from Steinway and foreign manufacturers.

1970-1983: Chickering & Sons was owned by a group of investors. During this time, the company faced a number of financial challenges, and it eventually filed for bankruptcy in 1983.