Kawai Musical Instruments: A Legacy of Craftsmanship

July 31, 2024

Kawai Musical Instruments Manufacturing Co., Ltd. was founded in August 1927 by Koichi Kawai in Hamamatsu, Japan. Koichi Kawai, born in 1886, had been an apprentice to Torakusu Yamaha, a watchmaker and reed organ builder. Together, they played a pivotal role in introducing pianos to Japan.

Here are some key milestones in Kawai’s history:

1. First Grand Piano (1928): After leaving Nippon Gakki Co. (later known as Yamaha Corporation), Koichi Kawai established the Kawai Musical Instrument Research Laboratory. In 1928, Kawai released its first grand piano, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in piano craftsmanship.
2. Shigeru Kawai Era (1955-1989): Following Koichi Kawai’s passing in 1955, his son, Shigeru Kawai, took over as company president. Shigeru expanded production facilities and opened the Ryuyo Grand Piano Factory in 1980. Under his leadership, Kawai pianos gained a reputation for long-term stability and performance.
3. Hirotaka Kawai’s Innovations: Shigeru’s son, Hirotaka Kawai, became president in 1989. He integrated advanced robotics into manufacturing, expanded global facilities, and introduced a new series of grand, upright, and digital pianos.
4. Materials Innovation: Since the 1970s, Kawai has pioneered the use of alternative materials. They replaced wooden action parts with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) to enhance stability and consistency in piano performance.

Today, Kawai continues to create exceptional grand pianos, upright pianos, digital pianos, electronic keyboards, and synthesizers, distributing them to over 80 countries worldwide. Their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation remains unwavering.

Whether you’re a pianist, music enthusiast, or simply appreciate fine instruments, Kawai’s legacy is one of passion, precision, and musical excellence. 

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