Sykes & Sons

Kawai Musical Instruments was founded in 1927 by Koichi Kawai, a gifted engineer and craftsman who began his career under the mentorship of Torakusu Yamaha, the founder of the Yamaha Corporation. Born in Hamamatsu, Japan, a region now often referred to as the nation’s “City of Music”, Koichi displayed an early fascination with mechanics and acoustics, which naturally drew him to the art of piano building.

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Working closely with Torakusu, Kawai developed not only the technical expertise required for precision instrument manufacture, but also a deep appreciation for the artistry, patience, and uncompromising attention to detail that distinguishes an ordinary piano from a truly exceptional one. Under this guidance, he became fluent in every stage of production, from the shaping of the soundboard to the fine regulation of the action.

 

As the years passed, Koichi began to envision a new generation of Japanese-made pianos that would blend traditional craftsmanship with innovative engineering. In 1927, driven by determination and a clear creative vision, he founded Kawai Musical Instruments Manufacturing Company. Despite its modest beginnings, the company quickly established a reputation for quality and innovation, developing original designs and refining manufacturing techniques.

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By the mid-20th century, Kawai had grown into one of the world’s most respected piano makers, standing shoulder to shoulder with Yamaha and earning its place as a global competitor. Today, the Kawai name is synonymous with reliability, refinement, and a distinctly lyrical tone – qualities that remain rooted in Koichi’s early training under Torakusu Yamaha and his lifelong commitment to the pursuit of musical excellence.

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The Kawai NS10 reflects this heritage of craftsmanship in a traditional, reliable design. Built in Japan during a period when Kawai’s manufacturing standards were at their peak, the NS10 offers a clean, balanced tone and a responsive touch that makes it equally at home for the progressing student or the casual player who values musical quality.

 

At 131cm tall, it has the string length and soundboard area to deliver a fuller, more resonant sound than smaller uprights, while remaining easy to accommodate in most living spaces. Its polished black cabinet presents with understated elegance, and like every Sykes & Sons piano, it has been fully prepared in our workshop; the action regulated for an even feel, the tone voiced for clarity and warmth, and the instrument tuned to professional standard.

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The NS10 is a dependable, well-made Japanese upright that embodies Kawai’s approach to building instruments that last a lifetime, offering excellent value without compromising on the essential elements of musical enjoyment.

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