Ep 16. Steinway

John Ratzenberger's Made in America is a documentary television series that explores the manufacturing processes of various iconic American products. In season 1, episode 16 titled Steinway, Ratzenberger showcases the creation of a Steinway & Sons piano, from start to finish.

The episode begins with Ratzenberger visiting the Steinway factory in Astoria, Queens. He is greeted by a few of the factory workers who show him around the various departments that make up the factory. One of the highlights of the tour is the area where the pianos are assembled. Here, Ratzenberger marvels at the skill and precision that the workers have as they fit together the various pieces of the piano.

Ratzenberger then speaks with three different employees at the factory, who each have a unique perspective on what it's like to work at Steinway. The first is a piano technician, who works on fine-tuning each piano before it leaves the factory. He explains to Ratzenberger how each piano can have a unique sound and how it's his job to make sure that sound is perfect before it goes to the customer.

The second employee is a woodworker, who shows Ratzenberger the different types of wood used to make the piano and how they are prepared for use. He explains that the wood is carefully chosen for its specific properties, such as its ability to resonate or its strength. Ratzenberger is amazed by the sheer number of pieces that go into constructing each piano and the level of detail that goes into making sure each piece is perfect.

The third employee is a finisher, who applies the final coat of lacquer to the piano. She shows Ratzenberger how she uses a spray gun to evenly coat the piano and how she has to be precise to make sure that the finish is perfect. She also explains how the finishing process can take up to a month, with each coat having to dry completely before the next coat can be applied.

Throughout the episode, Ratzenberger also dives into the history of Steinway & Sons. He talks about how the company was founded in 1853 by a German immigrant named Heinrich Engelhard Steinweg, who later changed his name to Henry E. Steinway. Ratzenberger goes on to explain how Steinway & Sons quickly became known for their high-quality pianos, which were even used by famous pianists such as Sergei Rachmaninoff and Franz Liszt.

At the end of the episode, Ratzenberger is treated to a concert by a renowned pianist, who plays on one of Steinway's finest pianos. Ratzenberger reflects on how the piano is not just a beautiful instrument, but a work of art that requires incredible skill and dedication to create.

Overall, John Ratzenberger's Made in America season 1 episode 16, Steinway, is a fascinating look into the world of piano manufacturing. Ratzenberger does an excellent job of showcasing the various steps that go into creating such a complex instrument, while also delving into the rich history of Steinway & Sons.