Literature Related to Scales in Steinway Pianos

print this page

A Steinway brochure in the 1877 Lakeside Directory has numerous mentions of their patented overstrung scale and patented duplex scale.(2, pp. 1145-84)

Spillane’s book of 1890 notes that Steinway introduced improved scaling and overstringing in the square piano that won prizes in an 1855 exhibition, and that these features subsequently became widespread throughout the industry. (4, p. 217)  Spillane also notes that the introduction by Steinway of the duplex scale in 1872 was another significant improvement and was based on detailed scientific analysis by Helmholtz and Theodor Steinway. (4, p. 219)

In her 1892 book Fanny Morris Smith notes that the duplex scale introduced by Steinway was based on the acoustic science of Helmholtz. (3, p. 154)

Dolge, in his 1911 book, has the following interesting discussion about the overstrung scale introduced by Steinway in 1855: “At the World's Fair, in the Crystal Palace, New York, in 1855, Steinway & Sons created a sensation by exhibiting a square piano having the overstrung scale, and a full iron frame, designed on novel lines to conform with the varied and much increased strain of the new scale. In this instrument the Steinways had not only succeeded in producing a much greater, sonorous tone, than known heretofore, but had entirely overcome the harsh, metallic quality of tone, so objectionable in other pianos having the full iron frame. Although at first seriously objected to by many, the overstrung scale and full iron frame were soon adopted by all American makers.” (1, pp. 51-52)

Summary: The introduction by Steinway of the overstrung scale in 1855, coupled with use of a full iron frame, revolutionized piano design in America and eventually around the world. It was fundamental to the subsequent rapid progress of Steinway & Sons to preeminence in the piano industry. The later adoption of the duplex scale was another important development.

Sources:

1. Dolge, Alfred, Pianos and their Makers, A Comprehensive History of the Development of the Piano. New York: Dover Publications, 1911.
2. Hutchinson, Thomas, Compiler. The Lakeside Annual Directory of the City of Chicago Embracing a Complete and General Directory, Chicago: Donnelly, Loyd and Company, 1877-1878, Available at:
https://books.google.com/books?id=oUo9AQAAMAAJ
3. Smith, Fanny Morris, A Noble Art, Three Lectures on the Evolution and Construction of the Piano, New York: De Vinne Press, 1892. 
4. Spillane, D., History of the American Pianoforte; Its Technical Development and the Trade, New York: D. Spillane,1890. 3. Smith, Fanny Morris, “A Noble Art, Three Lectures on the Evolution and Construction of the Piano,” De Vinne Press, NY, 1890.