The History Yamaha Pianos

Macauley Sykes
May 8
11 min read

Updated: May 11

The Yamaha Corporation was established in 1887 by the visionary Torakusu Yamaha in Hamamatsu, Japan.

Since the inception of the Yamaha Corporation, they have diversified into various sectors, including motorcycles, home appliances, and even robotics, but few people realise that the corporation began with the manufacture of musical instruments.

The company's origins as a musical instrument manufacturer are still reflected in the group's logo, a trio of interlocking tuning forks.

Torakusu Yamaha

Torakusu Yamaha was born in 1851 in the scenic Japanese region of Wakayama, located in Kii Province. Torakusu was the third son of Konosuke Yamaha, a low-ranking samurai and astronomer within the Kishu-Tokugawa family, the ruling family of the Kishu Domain.

The Kishu Domain, known for its strategic importance and its historical contributions to the arts and politics of Japan, provided a unique backdrop for his early life.

As a child, Torakusu likely experienced the rigorous education typical of samurai families, which included training in martial arts, literature, and the philosophical teachings that emphasised the importance of discipline and ethical conduct.

As a samurai, Konosuke would have instilled in his sons the importance of resilience and innovation, qualities that would later define Torakusu's own journey.

In 1871, a pivotal moment unfolded in the life of Torakusu as he embarked on a journey to Nagasaki. It was in this vibrant port city that Torakusu began his formal education in the intricate art of watchmaking, a craft that demanded precision, patience, and a keen understanding of mechanics. Under the watchful guidance of an experienced English engineer, Torakusu immersed himself in the complexities of horology. This period of apprenticeship was not merely a job for Torakusu; it was a transformative experience that would lay the foundation for his future endeavours.

After several years of rigorous training and dedication, Torakusu honed his skills and emerged as a proficient expert in the field of watchmaking.

However, as he delved deeper into the world of mechanics, Torakusu's interests began to evolve. He became increasingly fascinated with the potential of medical equipment, recognising the profound impact that such devices could have on human health and well-being.

Motivated by this newfound passion, Torakusu made the significant decision to relocate to Osaka, a metropolis that was rapidly becoming a hub for innovation and technology in Japan. It was in Osaka that he sought to further his education and deepen his knowledge of medical equipment.

In 1886, at the age of 35, Torakusu relocated to Hamamatsu, intending to pursue a career in the repair of medical equipment. However, as a small town, it lacked the demand and clientele necessary for a sustainable income solely from the repair of medical devices. To supplement his income, Torakusu also continued to work as a watch repairman and served as a rickshaw man for a local hospital director.

The beginning of Nippon Gakki Co Ltd.

A local primary school, Jinjou Elementary School (now Hamamatsu City Motoshiro Elementary School) reached out to Torakusu and requested that he attempt to repair their broken reed organ. The small town had a notable lack of qualified personnel to adopt the task, but Torakusu was entrusted with the responsibility. Torakusu soon discovered the cause of the problem, which was a pair of broken springs. Unable to source replacement parts, he studied the springs with the intent of producing them himself. Torakusu set up a workshop with the help of a colleague from the medical equipment industry and also received financial help from Toyasaku Fukushima, the director of Hamamatsu Hospital.

In 1887 (two months after the project started) Torakusu and his colleague produced the first Japanese-made reed organ. This marks the beginning of Nippon Gakki (which translates to Japan Musical Instrument Manufacture), which would eventually become the Yamaha company that we recognise today.

After receiving negative comments, Torakusu moved closer to the musical department of Tokyo.

He carried the organ over a distance of 250 kilometres (160 miles).

At the University, the professors were candid in their assessments, stating that the instrument he had developed was poorly conceived. Despite the harsh critique, Torakusu was granted the opportunity to attend lectures that explored various theories of music for a period of one month. This experience proved invaluable, as it allowed him to immerse himself in the academic study of music, gaining insights into the principles of sound, harmony, and the mechanics of instrument design.

Upon returning to Hamamatsu, Torakusu used what he had learned and began the construction of his second organ.

The craftsmanship that went into this organ was meticulous, and it was soon recognised for its quality, being rated "as good as those from abroad." This accolade was a significant milestone for Torakusu, and shortly after the successful debut of his second organ, Torakusu received an order for seven organs from various clients who were eager to acquire his finely crafted instruments.

In 1888, Torakusu was using an abandoned Hamamatsu Temple as the base of his operations, crafting organs with the help of carpenters and cabinet makers.

In 1889, just two years after the company was founded, the Minister of Education formally requested Nippon Gakki to conduct a thorough investigation into the existing administration system concerning musical instruments utilised in schools. This inquiry was aimed at assessing not only the operational framework governing the distribution and management of these instruments but also the working conditions under which they were employed in educational settings across the nation. The intent behind this request was to enhance the quality of music education, ensuring that students had access to appropriate instruments and resources that would facilitate their learning experience.

In the same year, Nippon Gakki sold nearly 250 organs to several schools in Japan.

In pursuit of enhancing his understanding of piano manufacturing techniques and expanding his knowledge in the field of musical instrument production, Torakusu embarked on an extensive five-month journey to the United States. This significant trip was a meticulously planned expedition aimed at exploring some of the most renowned and respected piano manufacturing facilities on the continent. Yamaha visited Kimball & Company, Mason & Hamlin, and the New York factory of Steinway & Sons.

Each of these companies represented a unique facet of piano manufacturing, from production techniques to design philosophies, and Torakusu’s exploration of their facilities was aimed at gathering insights that could be applied to his work.

Two years later, in 1900, Yamaha produced its first upright piano, and in 1902, Yamaha produced their first grand piano.

In 1902, Yamaha received a Medal of Honour from the Emperor of Japan.

The Medal of Honour with a green ribbon was awarded to individuals who, through their diligence and perseverance while engaging in their professional activities, became public role models

Connection to Kawai

In 1897, Torakusu saw a neighbour's son riding on a unique pedal-driven cart on the streets of Hamamatsu and was surprised to learn that the 11-year-old, named Koichi Kawai, had built it himself. Seeing the remarkable potential, Torakusu invited the young boy to be his apprentice.

Under Torakusu's guidance, Kawai learned the technical skills required for instrument making and the artistry and dedication that are essential in creating exceptional musical tools.

As Kawai matured, he applied the knowledge and skills that he had acquired from Torakusu to forge his own path in instrument manufacturing. With a strong determination and a vision of his own, he eventually founded a company named Kawai Musical Instruments, which rapidly gained recognition in the industry and inevitably became a competitor to Nippon Gakki.

Torakusu's death

Torakusu died in 1916 at the age of 65. Vice President of Nippon Gakki, Chiyomaru Amano, took over as CEO.

During the Second World War

Nippon Gakki developed advanced techniques in woodworking and laminating for the production of their musical instruments, which caught the attention of military officials who recognised the potential applications beyond music. As a result, Nippon Gakki came under the supervision of the Imperial Japanese Army and was instructed to manufacture propellers for fighter aircraft.

The propellers produced by Nippon Gakki became integral components of several prominent warplanes used by the Imperial Japanese forces. Among these aircraft were Kawasaki's Ki-43 fighter, which was renowned for its agility and performance in dogfights, and the Ki-48 bomber, known for its effectiveness in tactical bombing missions. The collaboration between Nippon Gakki and these aircraft manufacturers exemplified the synergy between skilled craftsmanship and industrial innovation during a time of intense conflict.

The company's ability to adapt its existing skills in woodworking and laminating to the demands of aircraft production highlighted the versatility of its workforce and the importance of technological advancements in wartime manufacturing.

This evolution from a musical instrument maker to a military supplier wasn't unique to Nippon Gakki. We have discussed in other articles how many piano manufacturers, on both Axis and Allied sides, contributed to their home country's war efforts during those tumultuous years.

Motorcyles

After the conclusion of the Second World War, many companies found themselves with an abundance of surplus machinery and resources that had previously been utilised for military purposes, but Japan was banned from manufacturing aircraft and other military hardware while under US control.

Instead of allowing the machinery to gather dust or be dismantled for scrap, company president Genichi Kawakami, envisioned a new path forward—one that involved the innovative manufacture of motorcycles. The post-war period saw a surge in demand for cost-effective personal transportation, as people sought to travel around the ravaged towns, cities, and countryside.

In 1954, a pivotal year for the burgeoning motorcycle industry in Japan, engineers from Nippon Gakki embarked on an insightful tour of various motorcycle factories across Europe. This journey coincided with a similar expedition undertaken by Honda, another key player in the Japanese motorcycle market. During their exploration, the Nippon Gakki team meticulously studied the design and engineering techniques employed in European motorcycle manufacturing.

They ultimately decided to base their first motorcycle model on the German DKW RT125, which had earned the distinction of being the world’s biggest-selling motorcycle throughout the 1930s, a testament to its reliability and performance in a competitive market. Later that same year, in a significant move that would mark its entry into the motorcycle arena, Yamaha officially launched its first motorcycle, the YA-1.

The YA-1 was essentially a replica of the DKW RT125, showcasing Yamaha's approach to leveraging proven designs while infusing them with their own engineering prowess. This strategic decision not only allowed Yamaha to enter the market with a product that had a strong historical precedent but also positioned them to compete effectively against established manufacturers.

In 1955, the YA-1 achieved remarkable success by clinching victory in the prestigious Mount Fuji event, a notable racing competition that tested the mettle of motorcycles and their riders against the backdrop of Japan's iconic mountain. This victory was not merely a win; it was a statement of Yamaha's capabilities and a demonstration of the YA-1's performance. Just a few months later, the YA-1 continued to impress by monopolising the podium in the inaugural Asama Highlands Race, further solidifying its reputation in the racing community and establishing Yamaha as a serious contender in the motorcycle industry.

The success of the YA-1 resulted in the founding of Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., splitting the motorcycle division from the musical instrument company.

Yamaha-Kemble Music (UK) Ltd.

Kemble, an established British manufacturer, joined forces with the well-established Yamaha Corporation in 1968 to create Yamaha-Kemble Music (UK) Ltd.

Yamaha was already recognised as a world-leading piano producer with a reputation for the high quality of their products and their dedication to excellence in manufacturing.

Kemble welcomed the significant improvements that Yamaha introduced through a series of strategic initiatives aimed at optimising the manufacturing process. By implementing advanced technologies and innovative techniques, Yamaha was able to streamline the production line, which not only increased efficiency but also ensured that each instrument met the highest standards of craftsmanship. This collaboration with Yamaha was particularly fruitful for Kemble, as it led to the creation of an entirely new range of pianos that combined traditional artistry with modern engineering.

Furthermore, Yamaha did not stop at merely introducing new models; they also took the time to revise and enhance some of their existing piano models. This thorough re-evaluation process allowed for the incorporation of cutting-edge sound technology and performance features, resulting in a new generation of instruments that boasted further enhanced quality of sound and performance.

The 'Classic' was among the existing Kemble models which benefited from Yamaha's influence. The Classic had a newly designed, full perimeter frame for added stability and longer string length, with a completely refreshed scale design, and higher quality keyboards and actions; all the while retaining the favoured 'British tone' that Kemble was renowned for.

Yamaha & Kemble continued to produce pianos in the Milton Keynes factory until 2009, when production was moved overseas.

Bösendorfer

Bösendorfer, a prestigious piano manufacturing company, was established in 1828 by the visionary craftsman Ignaz Bösendorfer (1796-1859). This esteemed brand is recognised as one of the "big four" piano manufacturers, a group that also includes the illustrious names of C. Bechstein, Steinway & Sons, and Blüthner.

Since its inception, Bösendorfer has gained a reputation for producing some of the finest pianos in the world, renowned for their exceptional sound quality, craftsmanship, and artistic design.

The legacy of Bösendorfer is deeply rooted in the history of piano making, with a commitment to innovation and excellence that has been maintained for nearly two centuries. Bösendorfer's commitment to quality has always been evident in their choice of materials and their innovative techniques. This dedication to excellence has earned Bösendorfer a loyal following among professional pianists and music enthusiasts alike. Many renowned musicians choose Bösendorfer pianos for their performances and recordings, appreciating the rich tonal qualities and dynamic range that these instruments offer.

In 2007, Bösendorfer was entirely sold to the Yamaha Corporation, a significant event in the world of musical instrument manufacturing that marked a new chapter in the storied history of this prestigious brand.

The management at Yamaha has made it a priority to preserve the unique characteristics and artisanal quality that define Bösendorfer pianos, ensuring that they remain true to their roots while benefiting from the technological advancements and global reach of Yamaha.

Bösendorfer focuses on the premium manufacturing of close to 300 handcrafted instruments per year and remains fully independent, operating as a separate Austrian company. This independence is crucial, as it allows Bösendorfer to maintain its long-standing traditions and craftsmanship that have been honed over centuries. As a result, Bösendorfer continues to be a symbol of prestige in the world of pianos.

Yamaha Pianos at Sykes & Sons

Yamaha's commercial success and reputation is owed to the company's insistence on quality in its products and services.

As Yamaha is one of our specialities, we have a considerable in-depth understanding of the brand. Our extensive experience with these instruments equips us with the knowledge necessary to identify key aspects that contribute to their quality and performance. We know exactly what to look for when evaluating these instruments, ensuring that we are only offering the best possible quality of Yamaha pianos to our customers.

As Yamaha is one of our specialities, we have developed a considerable in-depth understanding of the brand, its production lines, and its acoustic piano offerings over the years.

This familiarity equips us with the knowledge necessary to identify key aspects that contribute significantly to their overall quality, performance, and satisfaction, that any given model will provide to a prospective buyer. We are well-versed in the intricate details that set Yamaha apart from other brands, such as their innovative technology, meticulous craftsmanship, and the rich tonal qualities that their instruments are renowned for.

When we evaluate Yamaha pianos, we know exactly what to look for, including the quality of the materials used in construction, the precision of the action, and the clarity of sound production. Our team is trained to assess the touch sensitivity and responsiveness of the keys, which are critical factors for discerning musicians who demand excellence.

We also ensure that every Yamaha piano which is reconditioned in our workshop meets our high standards before we offer it for sale.

This thorough evaluation process ensures that we are only offering the best possible quality of Yamaha pianos to our customers, allowing them to feel confident in their purchase and satisfied with their musical experience.

Furthermore, our commitment to understanding Yamaha extends beyond just the physical instruments. We keep ourselves updated with the latest innovations and technologies that Yamaha introduces into their product lines. This ongoing education allows us to provide our customers with insights into the benefits of newer models, as well as comparisons with classic designs. Our passion for Yamaha pianos drives us to not only sell instruments but also to educate our customers about the unique features and advantages that come with each piano, thereby enhancing their overall appreciation for the brand. Ultimately, our goal is to create a community of informed musicians who can make well-rounded decisions when selecting their instruments.