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Restored Pleyel Pianos: A French Legacy of Refinement and Expression
- pianosnowportland
- Jul 17
- 4 min read
Pleyel pianos carry with them the spirit of 19th-century French elegance, favored by composers and artists for their warm, singing tone and subtle touch. Founded in Paris in 1807 by Ignace Pleyel, a student of Haydn, the company became a centerpiece of European piano manufacturing. Though no longer produced, Pleyel instruments remain highly respected and deeply expressive when carefully restored.
At Pianos Now, we take pride in bringing these rare instruments back to life. Every Pleyel in our collection has been chosen for its unique voice and solid foundation. We restore each one in-house, then deliver it fully prepared to homes and studios across the country.
Click here to view our current collection of restored Pleyel pianos.
A Brief History of Pleyel
Pleyel is among the oldest and most storied names in the piano world. Ignace Pleyel was a composer and music publisher before turning to piano manufacturing, and he brought a deep understanding of music to the design of his instruments. His son, Camille Pleyel, continued the work and helped grow the company’s reputation among Europe’s finest musicians.
Pleyel pianos became known for their lyrical tone and responsiveness, earning admiration from composers like Frédéric Chopin, who preferred Pleyel pianos for their ability to capture nuance and emotion. The company’s salon in Paris hosted performances by some of the greatest musicians of the Romantic era.
Even as the industry evolved and larger-scale manufacturing became the norm, Pleyel remained committed to artistry and detail. Their instruments were built in France with great attention to materials and craftsmanship, resulting in pianos that still resonate with clarity and character today.
What Makes a Pleyel Piano Unique?
Pleyel pianos offer a playing experience unlike most other pianos, thanks to their European design philosophy and tonal qualities. These are instruments built with refinement in mind, ideal for intimate performance and expressive playing.
Here’s what makes them stand out:
Delicate, lyrical tone
A well-restored Pleyel has a soft, velvety sound that invites expressive phrasing. The upper registers are singing and sweet, while the bass is warm and present without being overpowering.
Responsive action
Pleyel pianos feature a light, nuanced touch that allows for precise control. This makes them ideal for sensitive musicians and classical repertoire.
Elegant design
Many Pleyel pianos were built in the Parisian cabinetmaking tradition, with decorative veneers, inlays, and graceful lines that reflect 19th-century French style.
Historic character
A Pleyel is not just a musical instrument, but a piece of musical history. Each one tells a story and offers something different from modern mass-produced designs.
Our Restoration Approach
Because Pleyel pianos are rare and valuable, we take a meticulous approach to restoration. Our technicians and pianists work together to preserve the original musical qualities while ensuring the piano is structurally sound and ready for daily use.
Each Pleyel restoration includes:
Key and action regulation
We adjust the key height, travel, and responsiveness to restore the original feel and balance.
Tone voicing
We carefully shape and align the hammers to bring out the piano’s signature tonal color.
Tuning and pitch correction
Each piano is brought to stable modern pitch, with multiple tunings during the restoration process.
Cabinet detailing or refinishing
We clean and repair the casework while preserving its historic look whenever possible.
Structural repairs
If needed, we repair or replace internal components such as strings, pinblocks, or soundboard ribs, using materials that respect the piano’s original design.
Our goal is to maintain the integrity of each instrument while ensuring it is fully playable and reliable.
Common Pleyel Models
Pleyel pianos were made in a wide variety of sizes and styles, from small uprights to concert grands. Here are a few types we occasionally have available:
Pleyel Uprights
Compact but beautifully voiced, Pleyel upright pianos offer a rich tone and elegant look. Many feature traditional French cabinetry and a more delicate action than modern uprights.
Pleyel Baby Grands and Parlor Grands
These pianos often measure between 5 and 6 feet in length, with a lyrical tone well suited to solo and chamber music.
Pleyel Grand Pianos
Full-size concert instruments were favored by top musicians of the 19th and early 20th centuries. A restored grand from this era can be an extraordinary addition to a serious musician’s collection.
Because Pleyel pianos were produced for over a century, there is variation between models, periods, and styles. Some earlier pianos may have straight-strung or oblique-strung designs, while later models more closely resemble the layout of modern grands.
Who Should Consider a Pleyel Piano?
Pleyel pianos are not for everyone, but for the right player or collector, they offer a rare and rewarding experience. These instruments are ideal for:
Classical musicians
Their responsiveness and expressive range make them well suited for Romantic and Impressionist music, as well as delicate solo repertoire.
Educators and composers
A restored Pleyel can serve as a daily companion for creative work, offering inspiration with every phrase.
Collectors and connoisseurs
For those who appreciate antique pianos with pedigree and historical value, a Pleyel is a meaningful addition.
Homeowners seeking beauty and tone
Beyond their musical appeal, Pleyel pianos are often stunning pieces of furniture, adding warmth and elegance to any room.
Why Choose Pianos Now?
We specialize in restored acoustic pianos that have something special to offer. Whether you are new to Pleyel or have been looking for one for years, we can help you find the right fit.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Hands-on restoration
All of our pianos are restored by our team in our own workshop. We understand how to preserve character while ensuring function and reliability.
Nationwide delivery
We deliver fully assembled, concert-ready pianos to homes and institutions across the United States.
Personal service
Our team is made up of musicians and technicians who love pianos. We will work with you directly to make sure you find a piano that meets your needs.
Curated inventory
Every Pleyel piano we offer has been selected with care. We do not stock hundreds of pianos, only the ones we believe in.
Rediscover the Voice of France
A restored Pleyel is a rare opportunity to connect with the refined musical tradition of 19th-century Europe. These pianos are poetic, soulful, and inspiring to play. Whether you are an interpreter of Chopin or simply want something beautiful in your home, a Pleyel may be the perfect choice.
Click here to browse our selection, or reach out to us with any questions. We’re happy to help you explore what makes these instruments so special.
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