Greetings from cold and snowy Wisconsin:  I have been reading the
recent postings regarding quality of new pianos.

The name Story and Clark has come up frequently.  For a home I believe
they are a fine instrument, but, for an institutional setting I would
strongly suggest the Charles Walter studio piano..

Our school system began purchasing Walters approximately 16 years ago.
We now have Walters in nearly all elementary schools and also in the
high schools.  Quality is excellent.  The action is carefully adjusted
at the factory.  The hammers are properly voiced for the piano.

Walter service is outstanding.  One instrument developed a small crack
in the edge of the sound board.  The piano was replaced within a week!

We are fortunate to have an adequate budget for piano tuning -- all
instruments are tuned at least three, if not four times during the
school year!  With proper care I hope these instruments will be around
long after I retire.

Tom Gregory
Waukesha WI USA

 [ Tom, what factors made the schools decide in favor of purchasing
 [ the sturdy "school grade" piano instead of a cheaper alternative?
 [ How did the school board justify the additional expense to the
 [ taxpayers?  Did the piano techs and dealers in your community
 [ influence the decision?   -- Robbie