Just received notice from Estonia that the new 7'4 semi-concert has been unveiled in factory and was tetsted by a number of pianists including Dr.Laul.

First reviews and reflections were highly complimentary and promising - in true Estonia fashion nothing was hyped or exaggerated.

A new dealer from Luxemberg, offering mostly German pianos described the new piano this way:


The piano was completely designed and developed within factory - no outside help was requested or necessary.

As soon as pictures or sound samples of the new 225 grand become available, will try to post them.

The first 4 models have alreays been pre-sold, [ sigh..] - one going to California.

The California piano has been planned to a church that will celebrate their 3 million dollar renovation in southern CA, the first one is planned to the Historic Museum of Estonia in central Tallinn.

These are exciting time for the maker as it is expected to open new and important doors for them.

Hope nobody minds me giving notice of this - a historic event.

Estonia certainly been a long way coming...can't wait!

Norbert

So if I trade up from my 2008 190, how much cash will I need?

Only enough to have it delivered!

Thank you for this, Norbert.
The hole between 6 and 9 was just too big for Estonia to compete. The need for a 7 (even better, 7'4") was a no-brainer, finally addressed.
I must play one.

Gerald Brennan

That's an ideal size for a piano. I am looking forward to playing one if my local dealer should stock it in the future.

+1

Norbert:

You forgot to mention that the Luxemborg dealer was so impressed that he bought four pianos on the spot!

No, it was the California dealers who did....

Norbert

My wife's is going to kill me if I trade up...

Finally! I have often lamented that there was too big of a gap in the Estonia line. 7'4" is brilliant because this will give customers a better alternative to the Yamaha C7. Now, if only Charles Walter would build something around this size...

Ooooh - interesting, thanks for posting this!

beethoven986,
Have you played the new 7'4" ?

fingers

No, I haven't seen any Estonias in a long time. But, this new model is a good thing.

Norbert and I differ in the way we post. I am not sure that it is always best to post information as I learn it or to post partial information or rumors.

I say this because I am intimately familiar with the progress of the 225 and have been following it closely (by email and by phone). Since it is now out on the forum I thought a few older pictures of the piano in process might be nice to see. These pictures date back to before Christmas and early January. The last these pictures were taken while Estonia was awaiting delivery of the first 225 plate:



















I do understand that the piano has been very well received and they are now backordered. I can't wait to play it in person!

It's already like pulling teeth to get certain Estonia pianos. I would imagine this new piano will make the wait on all pianos even longer. I hope Indrek can up production a bit to compensate.

Posting pictures like that without showing a finished example is PIANO TORTURE!!

(Like my BB lid just dropped on my head.)

I was going to say you only live once, but that somehow seems inappropriate. Instead, I will advise to make sure affairs are in order before playing one. I am expecting the 225 to be really good!

No problem Rich!

14 years ago when we already said then "Estonia is a piano with surprisingly nice tone" - it was also only a 'rumour'.

It certainly was "partial information" - then.

Guilty as charged!!

Norbert

Rich, I always enjoy your posts. They are extremely knowledgeable and well-composed. They don't beat about the bush but offer solid facts. You also wisely manage to stay away from conflicts and strife on here. I guess that sets you apart from others, particularly the rumor-mongers. There are high-performance dealers, and, well, there are consumer-grade dealers (to speak in Larry Fine's words).

Thank you for the photos of the meticulous crafting of this piano. It is a pity that new Estonia pianos are not available in New Zealand. I would love to try one as they receive great acclaim on this forum.

Kia ora! ( a Maori greeting)

Robert.

Instead of simply discussing a new piano, there are always those who enjoy sliding off into personalities making undue innuendo.

Someone's "style of posting" may very well be different from mine - but it has nothing to to with the news of this new piano.

By the way, the innuendo of me posting 'rumours' or 'partial information' is completely false and certainly uncalled for in the context of this thread.

It's quickly picked up and reinforced by those who happen to have perhaps disagreed with some of my own posts or opinions in the past.

Cheap stuff, not exactly classy...

Sorry to all who are getting distracted by this.

Norbert

Norbert - I've appreciated all of your posts that I've read. In general I'd rather read lots of info and then filter as necessary. If someone disagrees with a post, they always have the option of posting their own opinion, or just moving on and ignoring it.

I really can not see how the original post could be qualified as rumour!

For me this is factual pre-launch information: customers, dealers can test drive (pre order) a new piano that is physically there and ready to be launched. In marketing technical terms this is called the beta-phase.

But perhaps that some prefer reading post-launch information in press releases, glossy brochures of either new models or hyped ugraded models.

At least I do not need a piano forum for that.

schwammerl.

need more information! When will it be out? Just how great is it? Will it save the whales?

Well, in all seriousness, this is a piano that has me very excited. Any idea when we can expect those "glossy brochures" and sample pianos to drool over?

Estonia is not in 'glossy brochures' - doesn't exactly suit their style....

Reports so far received indicate this will be a superb instruement - it's not just a 'larger Estonia' but an entirely new piano.

Righ now the raffle is on who will be able to get one of these.

Estonia will exhibit the piano first during next NAMM and will need to secure one of these pianos for themselves as well.

Don't forget it takes a long time to make one of them, as all their other models, these are not exactly mass-produced pianos....

Norbert

Feel free to place your orders!

Norbert (or Rich G) -- any idea what features will make this an "entirely new piano???"

And I'm guessing Estonia will use this new model to re-align their pricing structure. That is, price the 225 about 10-15% shy of a Steinway B and adjust the 168 and 190 accordingly???

I suppose we'll soon find out...

Brent

Brent,

This piano is a departure for Estonia in that they have never built a piano of this size before. Additionally this is a new scale. String length, bridge placement, soundboard dimensions, etc. - they are all different.

However, every piano has a signature tone and I fully expect to hear the Estonia tone in this new model. I cannot say exactly what Norbert meant in his last post, as we've never had this discussion, but I am sure he will respond with his thoughts.

Hi Rich,

Thanks for the response. I hope you'll allow me a few minutes to admire one in your showroom before it flies out the door!

(Perhaps you could use your special powers to arrange a 225 debut performance by Indrek Laul himself at Cunningham Piano!?!?!?!?!?!? I'm sure one or two people would show up for that )

Brent

The details of a brand new piano cannot be discussed until all the facts are known. Nobody has seen this piano as of yet.

My posted information were verbatim quotes from Dr. Laul who is presently in factory. We are not in competition of "who knows what" at this particular point.

We are all excited about this long planned, new model which is expected to open completely new doors for its maker.

The basic point is that there are few makers who are bringing out new models at this particular time of the economy.

I believe this signifies that Estonia may be in a slightly different spot.

Norbert

I absolutely agree, Norbert. Thank you.

So any word on the new Estonia grand?

I found this:
Estonia 225 with President of Estonia

Bump

I'm waiting too...but my 190 has been such a problem I'm probably going in another direction.

Most presumably it will be officially presented at the 2011 NAMM, so January 2011.

schwammerl.

Your 190 has been a problem? Was it bought new?

Yes, most of the strings were replaced because there were kinks in them, but it still sounds poor. It has/had other issues as well. It's just a lemon. When time and money permit I hope to get another piano.

Will your dealer allow you full value on your 190 to trade up?

Not sure, I'm probably going to another dealer anyway.

Wow, definitely a lemon! Sorry to hear that- I would be hesitant to get another Estonia, too if I had problems with one like that, and I would have complained loudly to the dealer who sold it to me. However, I bet you won't have problems like that if you were to try it again. It's unfortunate that I see that your posts are usually very negative about your Estonia, when the majority of posts on the brand (for the last ten years of production) are extremely positive.

I'd imagine Mark thinks it's a lot more "unfortunate" than you do given that it's his piano that's the lemon.

Wow, that really sucks! Did you try to get the dealer to replace the piano with another?

I experienced a sour string on my 190. Replacing it made all the difference and while the action needs regulation (it's 5 years old and feels a bit heavy) I do enjoy playing it. I've played some newer 190s which felt lighter and quicker and sounded as good or better.

Be that as it may if I'd had many strings on my Estonia that were sour it would have driven me crazy. Given that the cliche says, "Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me," I can quite understand if he's a bit gun shy (at least as regards the Estonia brand).

Having said all that I'm really looking forward to hearing the 7' Estonia, but I'm not sure I'll ever have the opportunity.

Intially he did, but my tech and the dealer agreed that the L190s he had at the dealership all had some similar issues with metallic overtones. So we decided to go the string replacement route. A guy in Utah had it done for the same problem and was happy. Mine didn't work as well.

I'm to the point where I just live with beast and deal with it, but look forward when time and money will allow me to get something else. I might have to wait till I retire in about ten years. And although I'm quite the piano hack, I do practice about 2 hours a day, everyday on it.

I just finished the online recital here, and many noticed the problems with my freshly tuned piano.

You’d be surprised what a little Protek CLP lubricant on the flanges, powdered Teflon on the shank knuckles, and polishing the tops of the brass cap-stands will do for your action. Next time your tech comes to tune it, ask her/him about it.

I remember reading about a couple of PW members having some problems with their Estonia grand pianos. It’s unfortunate that anyone would get a lemon in any high-end piano, but I suppose it does happen. My thinking is that when you pay a lot of money for a high-end piano, you want it to be perfect, or at least as close to perfect as you can get. You would think they'd be superior in quality to lesser expensive pianos. Maybe my way of thinking is all wrong.

Rick

Mark, is there a web link where we can hear your recital? I'm curious about the problem you have. Thanks!

I just listened to the piano and can assure it doesn't sound like any Estonia we ever had.

Mark: I pmed you and will do some investigations for you. I was one of the first Estonia dealer and we never had a piano with this type sound.

Sending this recording to cheers things up a bit:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6pJuktelZE

Norbert

Wow, Mark I just listened to your recording and it was clear there was something funny with the bass on the piano. Perhaps you should contact Indrek Laul and send him this video. I don't think he'd want that sound to be representative of a new Estonia.

Here- On the Adult Beginner's Forum recital 20

Recital 20

Mark . . . is number 39 on page 2. His particular Estonia does not sound anything like an Estonia should.

ditto +1

A little out of tune, but definately an unusual twang. Playing was nice though.

Rick

Mark,
that is very odd sounding! I can understand why you are unhappy.

Sophia

It was tuned just a few days prior, but I trust your judgment, I can hear off sounds but generally oblivious to off tuning.

There seems to be several things going on here.
The tech should definitely have looked at all factors involving seating of strings, hammers, hammer line up,regulation, etc

It may be a day's job but can be done.

I can't believe that this piano can't be brought up to snuff by someone who knows his stuff.

I've seen same or even worse with some of world's finest. One sorry case recently involving one of world's most admired...

This IMHO is a totally doable job. But you need the right person to do it. Too bad you're so far from us, know a guy who would be able to handle this.

Ever thought of bringing in a top tech from outside?

Norbert

My tech has over 30 years experience as a tuner and a re-builder. He's worked on the E Street bands concert piano when they were on tour in the north east. He even restrung their concert piano. He seems very competent. He noticed the piano was a problem right away when I first got it. He was hoping that a few tuning would clear up the new strings, but its been about 16 months and 3-4 tuning later.

I guess that's an option I might have to pursue.

I think my problem has taken us way off topic, since it's really about the new Estonia 7 footer.

So any ideas of the cost for a Estonia 7 footer?

Well I think the 7' 4" has great potential and probably worth a look. But given your past relationship with your 190 I can certainly understand your hesitation.




Norbert, I think that would be great. Mark deserves a better fate than this. The piano has a fundamentally different sound than any Estonia I have listened to.

I never meant any bad feelings here.

Wow, I listened to Mark's recital and that is NOT how our Estonia sounds at all! Yeah, I have empathy for Mark's situation.

Don't know if this thread is still alive.
Did the 7'4 Estonia arrive in the NYC area? I would love to try one. I have a 190 and I find the F2 area slightly unsatisfying. The rest is superb.

leraning,

I guess the 7'4" has not arrived anywhere at any dealer's showroom yet as I have not seen it announced on any Estonia dealer website in the world.

There is even not a trace of it on the official Estonia Pianos website: it is not yet in the model list and there in no trace of it neither in the news section (press releases) or 'Estonia in the World' section!

The new 225 was presented at the NAMM 2011 in January yes but as long as the first species that were ordered are not shipped out to dealers, for me it is not officially launched as not readily available. The first to leave the factory must still be somewhere in the production process, hopefully for those waiting for one, close to the end stage of it.

Rest assured that the first Estonia dealer participating here who gets one delivered will not be too shy announcing it on the forum.

schwammerl.

I made this video for those who are interested. I recommend headphones for full effect.

That piano sounds splendid, Sam.

I believe that the NAMM 7'4" Estonia was sold to California. Anyone played it in the 'natural' environment in its current location?

F

Impressive sounding instrument.

Nice job, Sam.

For those wondering, the terrific music being played is Liszt's sonata in B min.

If ever there was a piece of music sufficient to test a piano, the Liszt Sonata would be it.

I'm sure that was Liszt's intention when he composed it.

Very nice even without the finish. What style legs are those?

We call those gate legs. It kinda gives the piano that harpsichord look.

sawhorse legs

The 7'4 grand was in the making for several years but factory chose not to introduce until it was deemed perfect.

Incidentally I brought up German designer Lothar Thomma who inspected piano for some time. Very impressed.

What signifies Estonia is not just someone making another piano, but someone reaching for the top.

Eager when the first ones will become available.

Norbert

Wonderful sounding piano and Liszt piece as played by Indrek Laul.

That's a nice quality recording Sam.
Were you using one of the portable handheld recorders, recorder from your camera, or more professional gear? Just curious.

Thank you. It was a simple, inexpensive set up + much practice getting the most out of it. I was really surprised it turned out that well given the environment.

Well it does sound splendid Sam, and like you say, surprisingly good considering the noisy environment.

However, just to be totally unfair to piano, performer, and recording quality, and to put into perspective the comment that the B minor is one of the sternest tests of a piano imaginable (which it is in total, but not in a snippet), and finally to measure the piano against the spin I keep hearing that Estonia would be category 1 if not for the low price ), here is Economou's performance of the Lizst B minor on a a Hamburg Steinway before his tragic death.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcPdaG3xXTI

Note: For those who like it, the entire performance can be heard in three links.

Call it what you will, but I got to play the Estonia 225 at NAMM and I preferred it to the Fazioli 228 in the next booth and the Bosendorfer 225 across the street! It is an impressive instrument. But of course, for this class of instruments it boils down to taste.

Jazzyprof,

I really don't know what to say here. The quote you excerpted reiterated my earlier comment that the piano sounded splendid. I believe I was the first to respond to Sam's youtube link. "Splendid" seems pretty good to me, but somehow such comments never seem to be enough when messing with the Estonia lobby here.

I also said in the post you excerpted that the comparison of a trade show piano wide open for every Tom, Dick and Harriet to play on, and recorded in a very trying acoustic environment to a concert-prepped Hamburg Steinway concert grand professionally miked for recording was unfair, so you might add that into the "Call it what you will" reference.

I made the post because I don't think that the challenges to a piano that are definitely present in the Lizst B Minor were present in the snippet submitted here, and that the inference by an Estonia dealer that that Estonia passed a stern test based on that snippet was bogus. Those challenges can only be anallyzed from a fuller hearing of that particular work on a piano, a hearing that brings to light the extremes of dynamic range called for (among other things).

As to your preference for the Estonia over the Bosie or the Faz, say what you will. I don't know what you were playing, but my impression is that there is a lot of classical lit that would reveal the strengths of those two pianos, but that that lit does not include the Lizst B Minor. I've never heard a live or recorded performance of the B Minor on either a Bosie 225 or a Faz 228. It would be interesting, a matter of the meat on the bone versus the exquisite character of the bone itself.

Just to be perfectly clear, I generally agree with this statement. I hope that you are not saying that I inferred that the Estonia 225 passed some stern test based on Sam's recording. I couldn't figure out if you were referring to my post or someone elses'.

What is forgotten is that there were a large group of people playing this piano during NAMM who tried this piano at length and had also something to say after.

This was particularly interesting as Estonia was placed right besides Fazioli during the show.

It was the statements and observation of those including a number of competitors [Steve Cohen..] and even Lothar Thomma who still ring in my ears.

From my recollection, there weren't many ifs and buts.

Of course I wouldn't dare to even indicate any more for fear of piano Taliban raising its ugly,cowardly head again...

Norbert

I spent a good deal of time at the Estonia booth and listened to many who evaluated the new 7'4". The comments were universally positive. I would go so far as to say it was "acclaimed"...and deservedly so.

I also had the pleasure of going to dinner with Indrek the two nights before the show opened to dealers. The first night is was just Indrek and me, eating ribs at Tony Roma's. The second night Larry joined us.

Indrek is every bit the delight as others have described.

Whil all of this is undoubtedly delightful, and camaraderie has its points (and perks! ) it is interesting to see how what's important to our retailrr brethren may be of no consequence to consumers with ears and fingers of their own.

Many of us have only NAMM sound clips to go on. A lot of those clips are pretty useless because of the background noise and other issues. Sam's clip was the best IMO. The piano sounded splendid...sweet lyrical treble, alluring tonal qualities. But based on the smaller Estonias that's hardly a surprise. I mean.... who would expect that Indrek Laul would travel to NAMM to lay an egg?

For us consumers who have ears, fingers, and confidence in our powers of evaluation (not our taste -- that's different), we should not factor in the nice guy variable any more than we should factor in the Tony Roma ribs. At some point we'll get a chance to size up one of the new Estonias (unless Ori devoours whole consignments before they reach their intended destination.

(Easy, Ori! It's a joke.)

Please count under 'consumers' also some dealers roaming the [show] land....

And since my wife is world's best cook, going out to dinner was of less interest to me anyways. Staying right besides Tony Roma I must admit however, their ribs are indeed very good!

Norbert

One other factor to consider is that not all potential buyers of pianos play or trust their ability to evaluate the tonality and rsponsiveness of pianos they are considering. Many buy a piano to "grow into".

They often rely on the opinions of others.

I didn't get the impression from Steve's post that we are supposed to "factor in the nice guy." I thought he was making two separate points...

1. The Estonia 225 was well received at NAMM
2. Indrek Laul is a nice guy.

That's scary, Steve.

What if they were to think that the ribs in the Estonia were made by Tony Roma?

Keith,

I just found this post. Guilty as charged.

Yeah, I thought you were inferring something with your comment about the B Minor. I always think of you as a pianist first and a piano retailer second, so I'm glad to know I was wrong.

Let's have a Lizst Sonata in B minor thread sometime. I love that thing to death, but a couple of run throughs as written can put the piano out of tune.

They aren't???

[Actually I must admit...I find Tony Roma's ribs much more "sustaining".]

And exactly what authority is a nice Jewish boy on pork Ribs?

This thread combines Estonia pianos with Tony Roma's ribs and is therefore my favorite place in the world!

I wonder when the 225 will show up in Europe, that will probably be another year. And probably 5 years until I get to play one. But then again, I plan to have the house that it would fit into in 10 years at the earliest so that's still plenty of time

Hello All,

I now have several new recordings of the Estonia L225. I selected 2 short clips from other full performances that are available elsewhere on YouTube. The full versions are better, but the clips are easier to digest. Feel free to kick this can around, but I know several of you are genuinely interested...and I had fun making them. Oh, and it's the first time I've used this new recording setup.

Earlier today, I also uploaded a clip of our fearless leader, Frank Baxter , taking a break from his current road trip playing a couple of pianos including the L225.

Sam,

Visiting your YouTube Channel frequently I noticed the new Estonia videos but not yet the Frank Baxter one: also very nice indeed.

I would recommend everyone to watch the full length videos and preferably to switch to high definition (HD).

schwammerl.

While I do love the Estonia pianos and also I enjoy Norberts posts a bunch,

I saw this on his__ Heritage site:

"""While all of world’s top pianos are very special, the Estonia grand piano offers something unique in that it has not taken part in all too common “louder is better” race, sometimes called “Yamahazation” by most of the current manufacturers of today.""""

It is an explanation (or apology?) of what I find lacking in the Estonias, I wish it was a louder Piano, I still have plans on purchasing one as I think they are great. But next to a Fazioli (for example) it is a noticeable volume sacrifice...

Is there much you can do to raise the SPL of these guys?

Thanks for any consideration,

J

johnkuker,

Are you talking about the new model 7'4" against other pianos of the same size or Estonias in general?

Having played a decent handful of model 190s at this point, I guess what I noticed compared with other good quality pianos of that size was a tone biased towards lyrical beauty and a dynamic range that seems more intended for a home than a hall. The latter trait made the piano a contender for me, but the former didn't work well with the full range or repertoire that I like to play.

I imagine the larger model might provide more of the oomph you desire... if not, there certainly are many louder pianos out there to choose!

Hi, Yeah the 7'4" was the best Estonia I have heard, and You are correct there are other screamers out there__ j

This may be true for some - but not necessarily for others.

Just like the one before, we just sold our last 225 Estonia to a gentleman who not only compared the piano to above named super star but several others of equally high-highest tier.

Money? No problem: this guy had enough to buy both companies twice over...

Nice to have another remarkable choice - that's what it's all about.

This being said with greatest respect to everyone else out there....

Norbert

How Many Estonia 225's have been built? I played the Namm one and really liked it did anyone else check this one out? Thanks

1 per month since its introduction. Most have already been sold to customers.

Thanks Sam,

I Saw the video of you guys having one (I think) What was the impression as compares to other
high end pianos? Thanks for your time j

Many of the current crop of videos of the 225 are those captured at NAMM (some of mine, some from Keyboard Magazine, etc.) or those recorded at our store with the help of good friends. I'm no recording expert to capture the instrument's true voice, but what was easy to capture is the immediate excitement of those playing and listening to the music from this instrument for the very first time. The music from that piano almost kills you with kindness.

I love the variety of high end pianos. Piano comparisons keep this forum alive, but are about as reliable as eye-witness testimony. Our 225 took more preparation than I was expecting, but that's about the only comment I can think of that isn't absolutely glowing. So I'll reserve my bias and defer to the videos as an introduction to others.

By the way, if you want to gain a sense of volume from the 225, I recommend this video.

Wow!!!

Yeah. That guy knows what he's doing.

Pretty cool to see a passionate piano player who is also a passionate piano maker!

Thanks Sam,

Yeah it seems like a wonderful instrument-- It certainly seems louder then I was remembering when Indrek Laul crashes on it!

I like the Video of Dr. Laul's wife playing Namm 2012 the best though:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IngEZmZt33Y
she made it sound so pretty__ I wonder what she is playing...??

I wish someone who bought one would do a review! cheers

There are two women featured in the video. The first is playing the Schumann Fantasy Opus 17. The second is playing the first movement of the Schumann Piano Concerto.

Thanks Carey,

for access to my new favorite piece,

Also, I decided to throw down and put a deposit on a 225_ Thanks to all you at PW for helping inform me whilst I was lurking these last few months__
Now time to practice

j

Now THAT is really exciting !!!!!!!!!!

Congratulations !!

Good decision!

I have heard the 5'6" and the 190, This one seems to be all the way there does anyone (dealers invited to comment) have any insight about how this one measures up?? thx j

oops, 'this one' meaning the 225/7'4"

Wound up,

Given that it is an incredibly new model, their limited production and that only a few Estonia dealers that have received one participate on this forum...you'll likely hear from the same 3-4 people that have already posted in this thread.

If you have a specific question, I would talk to your local dealer or PM me and I'll do my best to answer it. I believe we have 1 of only 2 available in the U.S. right now.

Thanks Again Sam,

I played the 225 Estonia for the 2012 Namm show, It sounds really great and special, Sweet and solid.

Though.. the 'aound middle c' section was voiced down too far for my tastes. --Duller further away sounding -- not has good as other Estonia's out of the crate --to me. (speaking to the voicing of the hammers only) I also saw the 190 Pyramid Mahogany model in MPLS and it Also had the same voicing issue. I pulled the action and you could physically see that there was work done to the 'offending -to me' hammers....

*Questions: Would you have any reservations about purchasing such an Instrument -- Namm/heavily played by some monster players for 3 days? and How about the voicing issue-- would one try to voice it up? or is it worth it to rehammer that section? I know that I am being critical but -- buying a NEW piano - I do not want to live with ANY unneeded compromises...


There are several great youtube videos Gleen Stewart playing Giant Steps on the Estonia 225 from Namm 2012, Is dizzying with players with that kind of finger strength the paino doesn't sound dull at all-- but for lil ol me it is a bit bagged out in the middle--
(when the actions were pullewd you could see the weird sounding sections had treated-softened/needled hammers--)

Any insight or suggestions would be most welcome -

fwiw JimLaabs has that SO Pretty 190

This piano was the high point of NAMM 2012 for me. Can't wait to receive one.

A bit off topic, but since this is the first Estonia thread I see on the index page ...

Happy Birthday, Estonia!

And by that I mean Estonia the country that declared independence on the 24th of February, 1918.

I learnt that it's Estonia's "birthday" from watching Colbert Report where Stephen Colbert gave a shout-out to Estonia for said "birthday" and complimented the country for having a good PR department.

Anyway, enjoy your pianos.

Thanks J Rugerro, You are making me feel even better and less paranoid about buying that piano. Cheers j