Apart from a huge price tag and unattainability for many ordinary folk, there may not be an obvious link between pianos and cars — except the luxury lifestyle which may accompany the ownership of one or both.
Nevertheless, luxury car manufacturer Bentley has collaborated with esteemed piano maker Steinway & Sons to introduce special limited editions of automobile and acoustic piano.
Alongside the Bentley Flying Spur Speed, finished in Arctic White with a piano black interior, comes 52 limited edition Steinway grand pianos in Ultra Black and Ultra White.
An exclusive event in Steinway’s Hamburg factory unveiled the iconic pairing. I can’t talk with any expertise or authority about cars, so here’s what the press release says: “Bentley’s Flying Spur Speed sedan – powered by its Ultra Performance Hybrid V8 – is finished in Arctic White with a Piano Black veneer interior, a lyrical design pairing that mirrors Steinway’s striking new Ultra Black and Ultra White limited edition grand pianos. The collaboration is a celebration of monochrome – a palette favoured by customers of both brands – and a reminder that in the world of luxury, less is more.”
Steinway has revealed contemporary interpretations of its legendary grand pianos: there are 18 Model B Concert Grands and eight Model D Concert Grands in each colour way.
The collaboration between Bentley and Steinway reflects both brands’ expertise in woodworking and veneering, and builds upon recent visits to one another’s factories.
Guido Zimmermann, President of Steinway & Sons Europe, said, “The Ultra Black and Ultra White editions embody Steinway’s ability to honour our heritage while exploring new expressions of design. These pianos are not only instruments of the highest musical quality but also works of art, created for those who value craftsmanship, individuality, and timeless beauty.”
