Eric Wolfley wrote: "You know Rick, I've been trying to establish a budget here for piano replacement since I started 11 years ago with no results. The fact that there wasn't a budget to begin with speaks volumes, and believe me there are a couple of scenarios I would prefer over buying a whole bunch of Steinways all at once. The reality is however, that even if we didn't buy into the program we would still be buying a boatload of Steinways because we only had 38 of them here to start out with AND THAT'S WHAT EVERYBODY WANTS." Eric, Very well put. This echoes my experience at two state flagship universities. In fact, my last dean pretty much said he couldn't justify a higher maintenance budget (i.e. 2nd full time tech) unless he had all Steinways! (I know, go figure) But the reality is that the faculty - the performers - at both schools snubbed their noses at the finest Yamahas and Bosies in the state. They are just more comfortable with the Steinway keys under their fingers, and I really don't think it has anything to do with whether or not they can see the letters on the fallboard. I know the piano majors at USC certainly complained heavily about having to practice on Baldwin Ls and have their lessons and recitals on Steinways. Big transisition in tone and feel. In the practice rooms, they preferred a couple of 30 year old Steinway beaters to the 10 year old Baldwins. As much as is said about the inconsistencies of Steinways, it seems that the consistency of Steinway is what they seem to like. I appreciate wholeheartedly Rick's passion for diversity -- heck I'm a competitor to Steinway now! -- but reality is reality. It also greatly simplifies the maintenance program. Tanner in Caroliner
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