Baldwin Pianos Chooses Sphere As Its UK Showcase Studio

London – September, 2002: London’s Sphere Studios has installed a Baldwin Concert Grand piano, an instrument that has been enjoying huge popularity in the US for nearly 150 years.

Sphere Studios has been in the market for a piano since it opened last year but was taking time to make the decision to ensure it installed the right instrument for its client base.

After discussions with a number of manufacturers, Sphere director Malcolm Atkin opted for a 7ft Baldwin SFG 10 Concert Grand piano that has now been given a permanent home in Sphere’s Studio One. As the entire facility is geared up to be completely integrated, the piano can be used by any client working in any studio or production room – it’s just a question of patching through to Studio One’s live room.

Baldwin was founded in 1862 and the company is the largest US piano manufacturer. Among the many famous names who use the instruments are Dave Brubeck, Ben Folds, Bruce Hornsby and Alicia Keys.

Just over a year ago, Baldwin was acquired by Gibson Guitars and under its new management team it is all set to enjoy a huge boost in the UK.

Henry Juszkiewicz, chairman and chief executive of Gibson/Baldwin, says: “Some of the world’s greatest artists and producers record at Sphere studios, so it’s the perfect place to introduce Baldwin pianos to the UK. In the early 1900s, in the Golden age of pianos, Baldwin shipped pianos enjoyed a world-wide reputation, and now, with Sphere as our first ‘artist showroom’, we have taken the first step in our plan to re-establish a network of dealers and distributors in both the UK and Europe.”

Malcolm Atkin adds: “We are delighted that Baldwin has decided to use our facility as the official showcase for this fantastic piano. Since its installation it has already been enjoyed by a number of clients, including Christine McVie and UNKLE. It is a marvellous instrument and everyone who has played it has loved it.”