The Weinbach name was first associated with an organ-making workshop in the Weinbach region of Germany. Founded by Gerhard Wein in 1887 the business quickly grew enough for him to take on two apprentices - who had been working with piano makers in Vienna. Production was soon to move away from organ-building. Instead, pianos became the focus of the operation and by 1893, they were solely making pianos!
Establishing a firm reputation for quality pianos, demand grew strongly. Soon healthy Weinbach Piano sales led to increased production, expanding sales beyond Europe and into the American market. When Gerhard Wein died, both his sons continued the good work thus ensuring the continuation of family involvement for another generation.
It is frustrating, that good, hard facts about the development of the Weinbach business during the 1920s- to 1950s is very difficult to find. Pleased that these esteemed names are preserved but I shall revisit the quest from time to time.
The piano-making giant Petrof, operating in the Czech Republic, added Weinbach pianos to their growing portfolio of piano names. Using these different names they cater for the complete range of price brackets. In the ever competitive market place of modern business, the ability to satisfy demand across these ranges, provides better sales as a whole. And, it allows names like Weinbach to endure for the foreseeable future.
© Steve Burden
