Bluthner 4a

Colour: Fiddleback Mahogany
SKU: C1197
Year: TBC

The Bluthner Model 4a is a compact boudoir grand piano from the celebrated Leipzig manufacturer, presented in a stunning fiddleback mahogany cabinet, one of the most visually striking finishes available on any piano. At 5'5" and priced at £7,495, it offers the distinctive Bluthner tone, warm, lyrical, and harmonically rich, in a size and finish that few instruments on the market can match.

The Model 4a has had some restoration work in the past and maintains its beautiful Bluthner touch and tone with a light, responsive action that rewards sensitive playing. This instrument is available from our Oxfordshire showroom, and we strongly encourage a visit to play it in person.

Available to purchase online or to try in person. Contact us to arrange a viewing or to request further information and videos.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bluthner Model 4a?

The Bluthner Model 4a is a compact variant of Bluthner's Model 4, designed to offer the full Bluthner tonal character in a slightly smaller format. At approximately 5 foot 5 inches, it is a practical size for home music rooms while still delivering the warm, lyrical sound and Bluthner's characteristic light, responsive action for which the brand is celebrated. The Model 4a is particularly popular with pianists who value tonal subtlety and expressive touch above raw power.

What is special about fiddleback mahogany?

Fiddleback mahogany is a highly prized timber with a distinctive rippled grain pattern that catches the light and changes appearance as you move around the instrument. It is exceptionally rare on a grand piano cabinet and makes this Bluthner one of the most visually striking instruments available on the used market. Combined with the Bluthner pedigree, it is an instrument for a buyer who wants both exceptional tone and exceptional beauty.

How does the Bluthner Model 4a compare to a Yamaha baby grand at a similar price?

A Yamaha baby grand offers Japanese manufacturing consistency, a bright and even tone, and reliable action regulation. The Bluthner Model 4a offers a warmer, more complex and lyrical sound with Bluthner's distinctive light, responsive touch and the unique aliquot treble resonance. The right choice depends on which tonal character speaks to you most directly. We stock both and are always happy to let you play and compare them in our showroom.

What does the partial restoration mean for this piano?

This instrument has had restoration work carried out in the past but has not undergone a full overhaul. This means it retains its original Bluthner character, the settled, expressive tone and the light touch that comes from years of playing, while being in good playing condition. It is an honest representation of a well-maintained Bluthner that has been cared for rather than completely rebuilt. We are very happy to discuss the specifics of its condition before any purchase.

How long will a Bluthner Model 4a last?

The structural core of a Bluthner grand, the cast iron frame and the rim, is effectively permanent. A partially restored instrument in good playing condition should give many more years of excellent musical service with regular tuning and appropriate care. A full overhaul at a later stage is always an option if a buyer wishes to extend the instrument's life further.