Studio Concert D 1887

Studio Concert D 1887

The Studio Concert D 1887 brings to life the sound of the rare and lyrical voice of a remarkable early Steinway D concert grand, serial no. 62523 – the only known instrument of its series (1884–1892) that has actually been preserved in its original condition and professionally restored. This unique piano represents a fascinating moment in Steinway & Sons’ evolution, bridging 19th-century craftsmanship with the innovations to come. Distinct from later Model Ds, it features an additional duplex scale and angled bridge pins that create different string lengths for each note, resulting in a lyrical, singing tone unlike any other concert grand of its time.

An Early Steinway Masterpiece, Preserved in Time

• Unique early Steinway & Sons Concert Grand Model D, built in 1887
• Duplex scale and angled bridge pins create a uniquely lyrical tone
• Historically faithful restoration with nearly all original parts retained
• Recorded at Stage B of Vienna Synchron Stage
• Multiple microphone positions for a variety of timbral variations
• Pre-configured mixer presets and additional FX presets

Preserved in Time

Having spent nearly 140 years in what can only be described as a time capsule, this piano was found in astonishingly original condition. Every part of its mechanism was preserved, including the original hammerheads, which were expertly reworked to revive the instrument’s authentic 1887 sound. Only three components were replaced during restoration – new strings, historically correct blued tuning pins, and red bearing felts – ensuring that its original substance remained virtually untouched.

Sampling Artistry

This unique Steinway D was first delivered in 1888 to Arthur Cecil Blunt, actor and theater manager, whose engraved signature still adorns the cast-iron frame. After his passing, the instrument disappeared from public record for decades before resurfacing at Guildford Cathedral in Surrey, England, where it remained in use until 2019. Owned today by Peter Lemken of clavierhaus in Vienna, the grand piano was meticulously restored by master piano builders, Steinway specialist Uwe Weschenfelder, Tobias Schmidt of Klavieratelier Lychen, and technician Stéphane Boussuge. Their careful craftsmanship preserved every nuance of its historic character while renewing its expressive voice for the 21st century.

The Journey

At Vienna Synchron Stage, this exceptional instrument was recorded in Stage B using VSL’s proprietary piano robot, capturing every velocity and release with absolute precision. The piano’s beautiful una corda tones were also captured with meticulous detail. Multiple microphone positions – including close condenser, sphere, and tube mics, mid and Decca Tree setups, as well as a surround configuration – provide unmatched tonal flexibility. Explore a wide range of presets designed for creative expression: Concert, Intimate, Player, Pop, Ambient, Vintage, and Cinematic, along with inspiring FX variations.

The Studio Concert D 1887 is more than a piano – it’s a living link between centuries. Its lyrical resonance and big sound with vivid overtones reveal the soul of a bygone era, now immortalized for modern composers and producers.