Written by: Jack Thompson

Antonn Petrof: The Czech Piano Maker Who Left a Lasting Legacy

Antonn Petrof, a Czech entrepreneur and piano maker, is renowned for revolutionizing the piano-making industry in the 19th century. His innovative designs, exceptional craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial spirit made him a household name in Europe, particularly in the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Early Life and Career

Born on August 15, 1839, in Hradec Králové, Bohemia (now part of the Czech Republic), Petrof was exposed to the world of piano making from a young age. His maternal uncle, Jan Heitzmann, a recognized piano manufacturer in Vienna, visited Petrof's family home in 1857 and introduced him to the trade.

Petrof honed his skills in Vienna and later returned to Bohemia in 1864, where he built his first piano. A year later, he transformed his father's cabinetry enterprise into a piano-making workshop, marking the beginning of his illustrious career.

Rise to Prominence

In 1866, Petrof registered his company, A. Petrof, just a few months before the Battle of Königgrätz. Despite the brief interruption caused by the war, production resumed, and the company grew rapidly.

In 1874, Petrof relocated his company to new premises on the outskirts of Hradec Králové, followed by the opening of an auxiliary factory in Temesvár (now Timișoara, Romania) in 1880. This expansion enabled Petrof to showcase his own keyboard and mechanical design in 1881, which gained international recognition.

Innovations and Milestones

• In 1883, Petrof began producing pianos that quickly gained popularity among the nobility and the imperial court.
• By the early 20th century, A. Petrof had become the largest piano manufacturer in the monarchy, supplying pianos to royal families across Europe.
• In 1894-1895, Petrof's company exported its first instruments, solidifying its position in the global market.

Legacy and Impact

At the time of Petrof's death on September 9, 1915, his company had delivered over 30,000 pianos, including one to Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The company continued to thrive even after Petrof's passing, with the addition of luxury furniture production in 2008 to diversify its offerings and adapt to the global financial crisis.

Today, Antonn Petrof's legacy is a testament to his innovative spirit, exceptional craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial drive, which continue to inspire piano makers and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Fun Facts

• Petrof's company still produces pianos using traditional techniques and skills.
• The company's instruments can be found in concert halls, living rooms, and royal palaces across Europe.
• At its peak, A. Petrof produced over 2,000 pianos per year.

Antonn Petrof's remarkable journey from a small workshop in Bohemia to a global brand is a testament to his dedication, passion, and innovation. His legacy continues to inspire generations of piano makers, entrepreneurs, and music lovers alike.