C. Bechstein Grand & Upright Pianos: Luxury You Can Hear

Since 1853, C. Bechstein is the reason the world knows German pianos to be the best.

Each piano receives over 500 hours of craftsmanship, made from the finest woods, steel, and felt on earth. Their sound is detailed, capable of conveying thousands of harmonics at once with perfect clarity. And their mechanisms are weighed and adjusted to within 1/10 of a millimeter.

Two musically distinct lineups offer fortunate owners the choice between traditional design (Academy Line) or the very best and latest advancements the world has to offer (Concert / Residence Line). All grands and uprights within each line share virtually all design components, material quality, and craftsmanship, leading to an incredible consistency of experience regardless of the model chosen.

But what’s the most interesting thing about C. Bechstein pianos?

The uncompromising trailblazers who seek them out.

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An Heirloom In AN 'instant' Era

C. Bechstein concert class pianos take over 500 hours of manual labour to produce. Add the curing and settling times and it can take up to 5 years. And every one of those hours of labour is meticulously tracked with personal sign-off from master technicians at every stage. It's what savvy collectors have come to expect from true German manufacturing, whether it's cars, aircraft, watches, or pianos: uncompromising precision, consistency, longevity, and passion. 

It's everything that today's era loves to mimic. Except that 170 years can't be faked.

THE WORLD OF BECHSTEIN

SINCE 1853, C. Bechstein has defined what it means to own musical perfection

In its picturesque factory nestled in the hills of the Saxony region of Germany, C. Bechstein meticulously crafts over 20 models of grand and upright pianos for a waiting world. Not a single one will be released until it meets Bechstein's uncompromising standards, and every process is meticulously tracked and catalogued. Here, perfection isn't just a word...it's a way of life.

C. Bechstein Piano Factory

Seifhennersdorf, Saxony, Germany

THE PIANOS

  • Made in Germany – Handmade in Germany since 1853, each piano reflects over 170 years of masterful tradition and precision engineering.

  • Exceptional Clarity – Renowned globally for their transparent, balanced sound and unmatched tonal depth.

  • Premium Materials– Built from carefully chosen aged spruce, hardwoods, and custom alloys, ensuring unparalleled acoustic quality and durability.

  • Acoustic Envelope – Patented acoustic designs produce remarkable cabinet harmonics, surrounding the player in a resonance envelope

  • Precision Touch – Expertly engineered actions delivering precise and nuanced touch, empowering pianists at every skill level.

  • Timeless Design – Visually striking, meticulously finished cabinetry complements any sophisticated interior, embodying understated luxury.

THE EXPERIENCE
  • Lasting Investment – Own a piano built to endure generations, maintaining its performance, value, and heritage for decades.
  • Trade-Up Program - Those beginning with a W. Hoffmann or Academy series can use Merriam's Upgrade Program to move up in stages.
  • Connection to Heritage – Join a legacy dating back to 1853, carrying forward a tradition rooted deeply in German excellence and cultural prestige.
  • Prestige and Distinction – Set yourself apart by owning a piano favored by discerning musicians and aficionados worldwide.
  • A Distinct Playing Experience - C. Bechstein pianos are a feast for both the eyes & ears. They produce a rich pallet of harmonics that would make any audiophile jealous, with immaculate control and effortlessness.
  • Sophisticated Ambiance – Elevate your living space with a visually and acoustically stunning centerpiece that exudes refined elegance.

*Some models excepted, please consult individual specification sheets for full details.

C. Bechstein R4 Classic Right Angle
All New Pianos

C. Bechstein R4 Residence “Classic / Contour” Upright

C. Bechstein R4 Classic Right Angle

C. Bechstein R4 Residence “Classic / Contour” Upright

The C. Bechstein R4 Residence upright piano, available in Classic and Contour versions, combines exquisite design with exceptional performance. Standing at 47.2" tall, it is perfect for private and professional

All New Pianos
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C. Bechstein R2 Residence Millenium Upright Piano Right Angle
All New Pianos

C. Bechstein R2 Residence “Millenium” Upright Piano

C. Bechstein R2 Residence Millenium Upright Piano Right Angle

C. Bechstein R2 Residence “Millenium” Upright Piano

The C. Bechstein R2 Residence "Millennium" upright piano, designed by Volkmar Rommel, is a masterpiece of compact elegance and resonant tone. At 44.9 inches tall, this instrument captivates with vibrant

All New Pianos
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C. Bechstein Concert C6 Upright Piano Right Angle
All New Pianos

C. Bechstein Concert 6 Upright Piano

C. Bechstein Concert C6 Upright Piano Right Angle

C. Bechstein Concert 6 Upright Piano

The C. Bechstein Concert 6 is the new, more compact version of the Concert 8, the most revered upright piano in the world. With over 8 months and 180 man-hours

All New Pianos
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Bechstein A4 Academy Right Angle
All New Pianos

C. Bechstein A4 Academy Upright Piano

Bechstein A4 Academy Right Angle

C. Bechstein A4 Academy Upright Piano

The C. Bechstein A4 Academy piano is a versatile and finely crafted instrument designed for a wide range of repertoires. Standing at 47.2"/120 cm, it blends Bechstein's 165-year heritage with

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Bechstein A2 Academy Right Angle
All New Pianos

C. Bechstein A2 Academy Upright Piano

Bechstein A2 Academy Right Angle

C. Bechstein A2 Academy Upright Piano

The Bechstein A2 piano, the smallest in the C. Bechstein Academy line, offers an exceptional introduction to the C. Bechstein world. It delivers a full-bodied, balanced sound with meticulous craftsmanship.

All New Pianos
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Bechstein A6 Academy Right Angle
All Piano Brands

C. Bechstein A6 Academy Upright Piano

$ 50,605.00
Bechstein A6 Academy Right Angle

C. Bechstein A6 Academy Upright Piano

The Bechstein A6 Academy epitomizes top-tier German craftsmanship, blending traditional techniques with modern technology. Engineered and built in Saxony with over 120 hours of hand craftsmanship, the A6 features a

All Piano Brands
$ 50,605.00
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Image of a C. Bechstein - A228 Semi-Concert Grand on white background
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein A228 Semi-Concert Grand Piano

$ 137,200.00
Image of a C. Bechstein - A228 Semi-Concert Grand on white background

C. Bechstein A228 Semi-Concert Grand Piano

One of the finest small-hall semi-concert grands in the world, period.  Developed by C. Bechstein's famed research division in Berlin, the instrument shares many qualities with the ultra-premium C. Bechstein Model

Grand Pianos
$ 137,200.00
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C. Bechstein A208 Parlor Grand Piano
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein A208 Parlor Grand Piano

$ 119,866.67
C. Bechstein A208 Parlor Grand Piano

C. Bechstein A208 Parlor Grand Piano

The C. Bechstein A 208 is a beautiful instrument for fine homes, small recital halls, houses of worship, or even recording studios.  At 6'8" the piano has a commanding tone

Grand Pianos
$ 119,866.67
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C. Bechstein - A190 Parlor Grand
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein A190 Parlor Grand Piano

$ 121,655.00
C. Bechstein - A190 Parlor Grand

C. Bechstein A190 Parlor Grand Piano

The C. Bechstein A 190 is a legend in its own right. It has redefined what a classic European piano should look and sound like in the 21st century, with

Grand Pianos
$ 121,655.00
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C. Bechstein - A190 Parlor Grand
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein A175 Baby Grand Piano

$ 114,405.00
C. Bechstein - A190 Parlor Grand

C. Bechstein A175 Baby Grand Piano

The C. Bechstein A175 is a 5’9” grand piano that embodies German craftsmanship and precision. Designed for discerning pianists, it offers a rich, singing tone, exceptional dynamic control, and a

Grand Pianos
$ 114,405.00
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C. Bechstein - A160 Baby Grand Piano on white background
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein A160 Baby Grand Piano

$ 108,605.00
C. Bechstein - A160 Baby Grand Piano on white background

C. Bechstein A160 Baby Grand Piano

The C. Bechstein A160 baby grand a surprise. It’s among the smallest premium baby grand on the market, yet close your eyes and you’d swear you were hearing bass tone

Grand Pianos
$ 108,605.00
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C. Bechstein - A120 "Select"
Upright Pianos

C. Bechstein – A120 “Select”

$ 46,438.36
C. Bechstein - A120 "Select"

C. Bechstein – A120 “Select”

*DISCONTINUED* Customers already in the market for a 48" upright piano will have seen Kawai, Yamaha, and possibly some entry or mid-range European options.  For buyers focused on long-term value,

Upright Pianos
$ 46,438.36
  • Inquire for more information.
C. Bechstein - A116 "Accent / Classic"
Upright Pianos

C. Bechstein – A116 “Accent / Classic”

$ 44,000.00
C. Bechstein - A116 "Accent / Classic"

C. Bechstein – A116 “Accent / Classic”

*DISCONTINUED* The A116 C. Bechstein is the quintessential European apartment piano.  A reasonable size (46"), clear bass, fantastic control, and the name the world's trusted for 150 years.  Available in

Upright Pianos
$ 44,000.00
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Bechstein 112
Upright Pianos

C. Bechstein – A112 “Modern”

$ 40,958.90
Bechstein 112

C. Bechstein – A112 “Modern”

*DISCONTINUED* The smallest in the C. Bechstein Academy line, the A112 is a fitting entryway into the world of high-end German pianos.  For a smaller space, or even buyers with

Upright Pianos
$ 40,958.90
  • Inquire for more information.
C. Bechstein - 118 "Contour / Classic"
Upright Pianos

C. Bechstein 118 “Contour / Classic” Upright Piano

$ 52,054.79
C. Bechstein - 118 "Contour / Classic"

C. Bechstein 118 “Contour / Classic” Upright Piano

The 118 C. Bechstein upright is available in two elegant cabinet styles: the Contour and the Classic.  Both offer the same precision and detail on the inside, with slightly different

Upright Pianos
$ 52,054.79
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C. Bechstein - 116k "Millennium"
Upright Pianos

C. Bechstein Millennium 116 K Upright Piano

$ 49,315.07
C. Bechstein - 116k "Millennium"

C. Bechstein Millennium 116 K Upright Piano

The 116 K Millennium is the very definition of "good things come in small packages".  With the most precise design - straight from Bechstein's famed Berlin R&D team - the

Upright Pianos
$ 49,315.07
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C. Bechstein - Concert 8 Upright
Upright Pianos

C. Bechstein Concert 8 Upright Piano

$ 105,850.00
C. Bechstein - Concert 8 Upright

C. Bechstein Concert 8 Upright Piano

The Concert 8 Upright from C. Bechstein is consistently touted as the world’s finest production upright piano. With the nuance of a grand, but the footprint of an upright, the

Upright Pianos
$ 105,850.00
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C. Bechstein L 167
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein L167 Baby Grand Piano

$ 195,750.00
C. Bechstein L 167

C. Bechstein L167 Baby Grand Piano

The C. Bechstein Model L 167 is a world-class baby grand, blending cutting-edge Berlin R&D with exquisite craftsmanship. It delivers a singing tone, ultra-precise touch, and unmatched build quality—perfect for

Grand Pianos
$ 195,750.00
  • Inquire for more information.
C. Bechstein MP 192
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein A192 Grand Piano (M/P 192)

$ 224,750.00
C. Bechstein MP 192

C. Bechstein A192 Grand Piano (M/P 192)

The C. Bechstein A 192 is one of the finest 6’ pianos in the world, ideal for home settings or intimate recital / academic spaces, with a rich, sustained bass

Grand Pianos
$ 224,750.00
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C. Bechstein B 212
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein B212 Parlor Grand Piano

$ 275,500.00
C. Bechstein B 212

C. Bechstein B212 Parlor Grand Piano

The classic piano. 7' of pure perfection, from it its model-specific hammer design to it's flawless construction. Experience what 500 construction hours of the most exacting piano building standards sounds

Grand Pianos
$ 275,500.00
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C. Bechstein - C234 Semi-Concert Grand
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein C234 Semi-Concert Grand Piano

$ 311,750.00
C. Bechstein - C234 Semi-Concert Grand

C. Bechstein C234 Semi-Concert Grand Piano

The C. Bechstein C 234 is a masterfully crafted semi-concert grand, perfect for more spacious home settings or intimate recital recitals, places of worship, and academic settings. It has a

Grand Pianos
$ 311,750.00
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C. Bechstein - D282 Concert Grand
Grand Pianos

C. Bechstein D282 Concert Grand Piano

$ 366,666.67
C. Bechstein - D282 Concert Grand

C. Bechstein D282 Concert Grand Piano

The C. Bechstein D282 is legendary. Bechstein's 9' pianos have been counted amongst the top 4 concert grand models in the world for more than 100 years, and with a

Grand Pianos
$ 366,666.67
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HISTORY AND BACKGROUND

C. Bechstein has been producing pianos of legendary quality for over 150 years. Bechstein’s story begins In 1853 when German native Carl Bechstein began bespoke production of what would ultimately prove to be some of the world’s finest pianos in an effort to satiate the most demanding pianists of the day. To satisfy demand, what began as low volume bespoke production eventually expanded into a large-scale operation, with Bechstein producing several thousand pianos annually by the turn of the century. At the height of Bechstein’s popularity, and as the preferred choice of European aristocracy, the onset and aftermath of two world wars came precariously close to critically wounding the company, but like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Bechstein was successfully rejuvenated.

With stable and competent ownership since the late 1980s, Bechstein is once again among the leaders in high-end piano manufacturing. More recently, in the late 2000s, Bechstein purchased the pre-existing Bohemia piano factory in the Czech Republic where they began producing pianos under the resurrected W. Hoffmann brand as a high-value European alternative to professional Japanese pianos.

The manufacturing time for the Academy series is roughly half the time spent on the Concert series.

Certain specific design differences include non-tapered soundboards in the Academy series vs tapered soundboards in the Concert series (industry-accepted best practice), a thicker full hardwood rim with more laminations in the Concert series, and solid beech bridges in the Academy series, versus laminated bridges (industry-accepted best practice) in the Concert series.

While it’s clear that both the Academy series and Concert series pianos are premium instruments, it’s undoubtedly that the musical potential is superior in the Concert series. These instruments should be carefully considered by anyone seeking the best in European piano craftsmanship.

*Please note that while C. Bechstein has declined an application for The Bundesverband Klavier (BVK) made in Germany distinction, some clarity regarding the BVK is needed.

Using the finest quality European components, Bechstein produces upright and grand pianos in two levels of quality; the lower-priced Academy series line (on par quality-wise with the best hand-made Japanese pianos, and select German brands) and the higher-priced Concert series line (among the highest quality pianos produced in the world today.) With extensive recent re-designs throughout the entire C. Bechstein Academy and Concert series line-ups, the current C. Bechstein pianos are noticeably superior to what the company was producing even 10 years ago. Today, each line produces 4 sizes of uprights, and 5 sizes of grand pianos, available in a variety of finishes and cabinet designs.

While the Academy and Concert series lines share many similarities, the differences can be summed up quite simply; The concert series line instruments use slightly better materials, undergo a lengthier manufacturing process, and utilize almost every best piano building practice known today.

Some of the specific material differences include AAA Austrian white spruce in the Academy series vs much more expensive Val di Fiemme spruce, i.e. Stradivarius, in the Concert series, Mahogany hammer mouldings in the Academy line versus stronger and lighter Walnut hammer mouldings in the Concert line, and Bechstein’s “Silver Line” action in the Academy series versus the “Gold Line” action featured in the Concert series (built to stricter tolerances.) 

The Bundesverband Klavier (BVK) certificate is a private organization in Germany made up of the smallest producers (in total less than 25% of the premium market) which is not certified by any laws, and to become a member, only requires the following:

  • gluing the soundboard to the back frame or rim
  • fitting and installing the cast-iron plate
  • stringing the instrument
  • gluing the cabinet around the instrument
  • installing and regulating the keyboard and action
  • tuning, and voicing

It does not require that ANY parts actually come from Germany to meet this certification. Not only is this fact, but even pianobuyer.com has published these details without protest or dispute from Bundesverband Klavier (BKV).

There are all sorts of inconsistencies as well; the world’s most respected concert grand piano, the Hamburg Steinway D, also is not on this list. Fazioli is a member…even though they are Italian. Petrof is a member, even though they are Czech, and Steinway & Bechstein both publicly declared why they were not joining – they already meet and exceed a much stricter government-issued regulation which actually requires Germany parts AND labor to get certified, which is the EUR-1 standard. 

View more piano brands here.

C. BECHSTEIN PIANO SERIAL NUMBERS

DATE OF MANUFACTURESERIAL NUMBER
1859-18600-300
1861-1870301-4196
1871-18804197-11676
1881-189011677-24958
1891-190024959-54181
1901-191054182-94753
1911-192094754-115783
1921-1930115784-137446
1931-1940137447-143890
1941-1950143891-147000
1951-1960147001-151950
1961-1970151951-162300
1971-1980162301-173785
1981-1990173786-180821
1991-2000181526-187537
2001-2010188393-200688
2011-Present202173-

C. Bechstein vs Bosendorfer vs Fazioli vs Steinway

Tier 1C. BechsteinBosendorferFazioliHamburg Steinway
CountryGermanyAustriaItalyGermany
Upright Models <120cmMillennium 116K, Classic/Contour 118N/AN/AN/A
Upright Models > 120cmClassic/Elegance 124, Concert 8Model 130N/AN/A
Grand Models < 180cmL167Model 155, Model 170VCF156S-155, M-170, O-180
Grand Models > 180cmA192, B212, C234, D282Model 185VC, Model 200, Model 200CS, Model 214VC, Model 214VC CS, Model 225, Model 280VC, Model 290,F183, F212, F228, F278, F308A-188, B-211, C-227, D-274
Rim ConstructionMahogany and Red BeechSpruce and Red BeechMaple and MahoganyMaple and Beech
Soundboard MaterialItalian Red Spruce from the Val Di’ FiemmeAustrian White SpruceItalian Red Spruce from the Val Di’ FiemmeSolid White Spruce
Soundboard ElevationMinimum 1,000 MetersHigh-Altitude (Specific Height Undisclosed)Minimum 1,000 Meters?
Tonal CharacteristicsExtremely Dynamic, Colourful and ClearDelicate yet Highly RichPowerful, ColourfulPowerful, Clean and Crisp
ActionBechstein ‘Gold Line’ ActionAction Made by BosendorferRennerRenner
HammersDark Walnut – Made by BechsteinRenner Underfelted ‘Orange’ HammersRennerRenner High-Compression Weikert Felt
Warranty5 Years Parts & Labour10 Year Parts & Labour10 Year Parts & Labour10 Year Parts & Labour
Backpost / Beam ConstructionReinforced Spruce Radial Frame with Dove-tailed JointsNot AvailableRadial Spruce Beam Frame with Triple Joinery?
Rim Construction (Grands Only)Mahogany and Red BeechSpruce and Red BeechMaple and MahoganyMaple and Beech
Duplex Scaling (Grands Only)Front & Rear Duplex?Double Duplex ScaleDuplex Scale
Average Hrs Production (Grands)420-550 Hours~500 Hrs500+ HrsNot Available
Average Hrs Production (Uprights)180 HoursNot AvailableN/ANot Available

Tier 2August ForsterBluthnerEstoniaShigeru KawaiYamaha CFNY Steinway
CountryGermanyGermanyEstoniaJapanJapanUnited States
Upright Models <120cm116D, CN/AN/AN/AN/A
Upright Models > 120cm125, 134A, B, SN/AN/AN/AK52
Grand Models < 180cm17011, 10L168N/AN/AS, M, O
Grand Models > 180cm190, 215, 2756, 4, 2, 1L190, L210, L225, L274SK2, SK3, SK5, SK6, SK7, SKEXCF4, CF6, CFXA, B, D
Rim ConstructionBeechBeechLaminated BirchMahogany and Hard Rock MapleMaple & MahoganyHard Rock Maple
Soundboard MaterialSolid Mountain SpruceSolid SpruceGerman Solid SpruceSolid Sitka Spruce, Ezo Spruce (larger models)Solid European SpruceSolid Sitka Spruce
Soundboard Elevation??????
Tonal CharacteristicsDeep, Dark & Clear with a Powerfull BassDark, Warm and LyricalWarm, Sonorous and DynamicVery Dynamic, Colourful, Dark and WarmBright, Clear with SustainResonant, Powerful Bass, Colourful
ActionRennerRennerRennerMillennium III Carbon FiberYamaha Balanced ActionSteinway Accelerated Action
HammersPremium RennerAbel Angled HammersRenner BlueMahogany, Made by KawaiPremium Balanced HammersHard Rock Maple
Warranty5 Years Parts & Labour10 Years Parts & Labour10 Years Parts & Labour10 Years Parts & Labour10 Years Parts & Labour5 Years Parts & Labour
Backpost / Beam ConstructionSpruceSpruceSpruce, Focused Beam ConstructionSpruceDovetailed SpruceSpruce
Rim Construction (Grands Only)BeechBeechLaminated BirchMaple and MahoganyMaple & MahoganyHard Rock Maple
Duplex Scaling (Grands Only)?Aliquot StringingFront & Rear DuplexFull Length DuplexDuplex ScalingFull Dup,ex
Average Hrs Production (Grands)??????
Average Hrs Production (Uprights)???N/A??

Frequently Asked Questions

The serial number on C. Bechstein uprights is located under the lid, stamped onto the metal plate. On C. Bechstein grands, the serial number is located at the front of the piano, also stamped on the metal plate.

C. Bechstein Concert Series grands and uprights are among the most elite pianos made in the world today, and one of only 6 manufacturer’s to be ranked in the highest possible quality category by the Larry Fine Piano Buyer’s Guide.

C. Bechstein branded pianos are made by hand exclusively in Seifhennersdorf, Germany.

C. Bechstein upright piano list pricing ranges from $25,750 USD to $67,457 while C. Bechstein grand piano list pricing ranges from $63,434 USD to $227,702.

C. Bechstein is very selective with their artist program. Contact a registered Bechstein dealer for more information.

Four of the greatest composers of all time are known for owning and composing on a C. Bechstein; Edvard Grieg, Alexander Scriabin, Maurice Ravel and Béla Bartók. Other famous owners include Claude Debussey, and perhaps most famously, The Beatles, Elton John, David Bowie and Queen.

You can determine the age of a C. Bechstein piano by looking up the serial number, and checking further above on this page to determine the age.

Many of the 20th century’s top classical and pop artists frequently played Bechstein’s, including Alexander Scriabin, Claude Debussey, Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Elton John, David Bowie, Lou Reed, Supertramp and Oscar Peterson.

C. Bechstein grand piano list pricing ranges from $63,434 USD to $227,702.

A C. Bechstein A192 (formerly named Model M) is a 6’4” (192cm) grand piano.

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