Steinway & Baldwin Restored: A Conversation with Piano Expert Thomas Masinter

Restoring Legends: Steinway & Baldwin Pianos in 2025

The world of piano restoration is a rare blend of craftsmanship and musical artistry. In this video, technician and musician Thomas Masinter shares his deep passion for restoring Steinway and Baldwin grand pianos. These instruments are treasured not only for their performance quality but also for their cultural significance, making restoration a process of both technical skill and historical preservation.

Masinter explains that restoring a grand piano goes far beyond replacing worn-out parts. His goal is to preserve the original tone and personality of each instrument. From rebuilding the action to refinishing the case, every step is done with precision to ensure the piano plays as beautifully as it did when it was first built. Each restoration breathes new life into an instrument, transforming it into a bridge between past and present.

One of the greatest challenges Masinter faces is sourcing authentic or custom-made parts. Many of these vintage pianos have been through decades of use and environmental changes, so finding materials that maintain historical accuracy while meeting today’s performance needs requires a delicate balance. 

Masinter emphasizes that every restored piano tells a story. Some have been on world-class concert stages, while others have served as beloved family heirlooms. By restoring them, he preserves not only the instruments but also the history and memories attached to them, ensuring they continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

Overall, Masinter’s work showcases the value of preservation in the modern music world. In an age dominated by mass-produced digital instruments, restoring a Steinway or Baldwin is about more than nostalgia—it’s about keeping alive the rich legacy of hand-crafted acoustic pianos.

Click HERE to explore Masinter's restored piano collection. Call/text 210-224-1010 to learn more.