1853 Founding & Innovation

In the middle of the 19th century, the city of Leipzig was one of the cultural centres at the heart of Europe equal to Paris, London or Vienna. The enlightened and affluent middle-class of Leipzig was very ambitious, self-confident and open minded, and the city itself was already well known for its international trade and its university. Changing circumstances meant that scientific and cultural education was no longer reserved for the aristocracy. During this period, the people of Leipzig prospered. The advancements during this time can be seen in the history of the University of Leipzig, the prominence of the St. Thomas choir, the Gewandhaus orchestra and the Opera, and the Academy of Music (founded in 1843 by Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy).

The Blüthner family was richly influenced by the musical traditions of the city and inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit present in Leipzig. All of these were convincing reasons for Julius Blüthner to open his piano factory, without knowing that he was about to establish such a highly successful enterprise.

On 18th November 1853, with excellent credentials and a budget of “1660 talers, 2 new groschen, 1 penny and 1 farthing”, Julius Blüthner started his pianoforte factory. His instruments were quickly recognised for their outstanding technical and musical qualities and were established in concert halls all over the world. “I will build new fortepianos and grand pianos of German and English design ... and then sell them” – This was the simple and consistent business plan of the young entrepreneur. Production began in a rented workshop with the help of three journeymen and the motto, “God will lead me!” Ten instruments were made in the first year, eight grands and two square pianos.

Blüthner pianos won top prizes at world exhibitions around the globe, including the Philadelphia World's Fair in 1876 where Julius remarkable 4th string Aliquot design won a gold medal and would influence the Golden Tone of Blüthner pianos evermore.