Broadwood Fortepiano

2016-01-28

This original Broadwood fortepiano, from the unique Chris Maene Collection, dates back to 1847. Beethoven played on a Broadwood pianoforte (from 1817) and this Broadwood is similar in every detail to the instrument owned by Beethoven. This fortepiano featured 6 octaves C-C and has more the character of a grand piano than the earlier fortepianos. 

London-based Thomas Broadwood was one of the most renowned piano builders during the 19th Century. After meeting the great composer Ludwig van Beethoven in 1817 he decided to give him a fortepiano as a gift, which later became one of Beethoven’s favorite instruments.