Steinway Baby Grand: What Makes a Small Grand a Steinway

Baby grands are grand pianos under roughly 6 feet. Steinway's small grands - often referenced by model (for example, the Model S) - use layered hardwood rims, cast-iron plates, and hand finishing. Production mixes machine precision with extensive handwork; completion commonly takes a year or more. Buyers choose between new models with factory support and restored vintage instruments for character and value.

What is a "baby grand"?

"Baby grand" generally refers to any grand piano shorter than about 6 feet. Makers and dealers now usually classify grands by model and length rather than older terms like "boudoir" or "drawing room." The Steinway Model S is the company's smallest grand and is commonly described as a baby grand (listed length ~5'1").

Handcraft and materials

Steinway baby grands are built with a mix of carefully selected woods, hand-finishing, and machine precision. The rim is formed from multiple thin layers of hardwood that are bent and glued into the classic curved shape. A heavy cast-iron plate anchors the strings; the soundboard and bridges transmit and shape the tone.

Although modern workshops use machines for some steps, many critical operations remain manual. Dozens of skilled workers handle voicing, regulation, and finishing so each instrument responds and sings in its own way.

Time and work behind the instrument

A new Steinway can take a year or more to complete from raw lumber to finished piano. The process mixes machine work, hand assembly, and long periods for glues and finishes to cure. This attention contributes to the instrument's durability and tonal complexity. ¹

Keys and finishes

Keytops today are made from synthetic materials rather than ivory. Key actions are milled from hardwoods and carefully balanced and regulated so touch and repetition meet professional standards. Finish and final setup are often done by experienced technicians to match the maker's voicing profile.

Why people still choose Steinway

Steinway baby grands receive much of the same design attention as full-size concert instruments. For many buyers the choice is between a new Steinway and a restored vintage piano: new instruments offer factory warranties and modern features, while vintage instruments can have character and value if properly restored.

Steinway also offers modern options, such as high-resolution player systems on some models, which bring additional functionality without changing the core acoustic design.

The bottom line

A Steinway baby grand packs the brand's traditional craftsmanship into a smaller footprint. If you want a grand piano for a modest-sized room but want the tonal and mechanical pedigree of a concert-builder, a baby grand from a reputable maker remains a logical choice.

For official model specs and current options, consult Steinway & Sons at www.steinway.com.

1. Confirm the listed length for the Steinway Model S (commonly cited as ~5'1").
2. Confirm typical factory-to-finished production time for a new Steinway grand (commonly stated as about a year or more, sometimes up to two years).