Why Are Pianos So Expensive?

People are sometimes taken aback by the price tag when looking for a new piano and ask the question; why are pianos so expensive? Quality pianos are not typically produced in large quantities and are assembled, often by hand, from rather expensive materials. The construction, assembly and finishing in producing these instruments are all learned craft skills that take time to master. Pianos are precision instruments required to stay in tune for long periods of time, and are often said to get better with age, with the soundboard becoming more resonant.