Store Hours:  Mon – Sat 10AM-6PM  •  Sunday 1PM-5PM
1600 W. 13th St  •  Houston, TX 77008

Kawai was founded in 1927 by Koichi Kawai, and has grown to become one the largest and best known musical instrument companies in the world. Kawai America Corporation and Kawai Canada

THE FUTURE
OF THE PIANO

Faithful to the characteristics of wood, some of the finest hand-work goes into the making of these pianos, which combined with the finest technology allows the company to adhere to the tenets of its founder, Koichi Kawai.

Kawai has been synonymous with excellence in piano craftsmanship and innovation for over a century. Founded in 1927 by Koichi Kawai, the company has a rich history steeped in tradition and a relentless pursuit of perfection in musical instrument manufacturing. From humble beginnings in Hamamatsu, Japan, Kawai has become one of the most respected names in the piano industry worldwide.

Koichi Kawai’s vision was to create pianos that combined Japanese precision engineering with the finest materials and craftsmanship. This dedication to quality laid the foundation for Kawai’s reputation for producing instruments with unparalleled tone, touch, and durability.
In the early years, Kawai focused on building upright pianos, steadily gaining recognition for their exceptional sound and build quality. However, it was only a short time before they expanded into grand pianos, introducing innovative design features that set them apart from competitors.

One of Kawai’s standout products is the Shigeru Kawai series of grand pianos. Named in honor of the company’s founder, these instruments represent the pinnacle of Kawai’s craftsmanship and expertise. Each Shigeru Kawai piano is meticulously handcrafted by master artisans using only the finest materials.

This results in instruments of extraordinary beauty and musicality. Renowned for their rich, resonant tone and unparalleled dynamic range, Shigeru Kawai pianos are cherished by pianists and connoisseurs around the world.

 

In conclusion, Kawai’s commitment to excellence and innovation in piano manufacturing. From its early days as a small family-run business to its position as a global leader in the industry, Kawai has remained true to its founder’s vision of creating instruments of unparalleled quality and musicality. With a diverse range of products that cater to musicians of all levels and styles, Kawai continues to shape the future of piano music for generations to come.

Original Piano Maker(s)
Koichi Kawai (1886-1955)

 

Date Established
1927

 

Original Location(s)
Hamamatsu, Japan

 

Notable Dates

  • 1897 — Torakusu Yamaha “discovered” Kawai at the age of 11 and hired him to work for his company.

  • 1928 — Kawai began manufacturing grand pianos.

  • 1930s — Kawai produced reed organs.

  • 1953 — Kawai awarded Blue Ribbon Medal of Honor from the emperor.

  • 1955 — Kawai passed away and was succeeded by his adopted son, Shigeru Kawai (1922-2006).

  • 1960 — Kawai introduced its electronic organ.

  • 1985 — Kawai introduced its digital piano.

  • 1989 — Hirotaka Kawai succeeded his father and became the third president of Kawai.

  • 1991 — Kawai & Steinway joined forces to create Boston Pianos.

  • 2002 — Kawai introduced Shigeru Kawai EX Concert Grand.

Innovation(s) / Patent(s)

  • 1928 — Awarded patent for Universal Action.
  • 1933 — Awarded patent for Piano Action and Regulating Apparatus of Keyboards.
  • 1934 — Awarded patent for Soundboard Bridges.
  • 1935 — Awarded patent for Reeds on Harmonicas.

Current Owner

Kawai Musical Instruments Manufacturing Co., Ltd. has the following subsidiaries: Kawai America Corporation, Midi Music Center Inc., Kawai Canada Music, Kawai Europa GmbH, Kawai UK, Kawai Piano (Russia) LLC, Kawai Australia Pty.Ltd., Kawai Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., PT. Kawai Music Indonesia, and PT. Kawai Music School Indonesia.

Its pianos are manufactured in four factories: Ryuyo Acoustic Piano Facility, PT. Kawai Indonesia, Kawai Musical Instruments (Ningbo) Co., Ltd., and Shanghai Kawai Emi Co., Ltd.

For prices on any of our Kawai Pianos,
visit our store or call us today!