We can’t wait to see and “hear” the Oostra’s new piano
Posted By RichC on March 10, 2026
Our piano for home recital in Hudson, OH and after adding bookshelves (2020)
Back in the late 1980s (or maybe early 1990s), we bought an older Brambach baby grand piano that was manufactured in the 1920s and restored and refinished prior to our purchasing it. For me it was a beautiful piece of furniture that doubled as a “tool” for our young Katelyn to learn to play the piano. Brenda and her family were far more invested in playing the piano (she did as well) and going further — Brenda played the violin (exceptionally well, BTW). So it made sense that we would try to do the same for Katelyn as well as Taylor as they were growing up.
Brambach Piano Company was founded in 1823 in New York and became renowned for its compact, high-quality baby grand pianos. The company gained prominence in the early 20th century for introducing the first mass-produced baby grand piano in 1912, measuring just 4 feet 7 inches—a revolutionary design that brought grand piano tone into smaller homes and studios.
Brambach’s innovation extended beyond size. The company developed a patented “Tone Expander” and a custom soundboard, enhancing resonance and volume to rival larger grands. These pianos featured a full grand action, warm mellow tone, and elegant casework, blending tradition with accessibility.
By the 1920s, Brambach was the largest exclusive manufacturer of baby grands in the U.S. The company was acquired by Aeolian in 1926, and later became part of Kohler & Campbell. Though production continued under the Brambach name until 1957, the brand was eventually discontinued.
Our family’s love of music has come full circle now with our granddaughters learning the piano. Up to now, they have been practicing on an electronic keyboard and playing beautifully at recitals.
So Katelyn began her search with a little encouragement from the girls music teacher. She found a very nice late model Boston Piano from a family in the Toledo area.
Soon the girls (and Katelyn … and Drew’s mom) will have a VERY NICE quality baby grand piano (photos below) to play and practice on in their new house. It will both look and sound wonderful in their home (I can’t wait to include a photo).
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