The University of Sheffield gains prestigious All-Steinway school accreditation

From March 2021, the University of Sheffield begins a prestigious partnership with Steinway & Sons. This partnership demonstrates a full commitment to excellence by the University of Sheffield. Pianos across the institution will be world-class.

Steinway & Sons

Steinway & Sons are a world-leading musical instrument manufacturer renowned for making high quality pianos. Since being established in 1851, the Steinway company has received numerous prestigious awards and their pianos are the first choice for concert platforms across the world. Highly skilled craftsmen hand-make each piano using traditional European methods that have been passed down through generations. 

Steinway Website 

All-Steinway School Accreditation 

As an All-Steinway School, the University of Sheffield begins a partnership with an organisation which is associated with excellence across the world. This places the University of Sheffield among a select group of international education institutions who share the status of 90% of their pianos being considered world-class.  

The Steinway accreditation demonstrates the University of Sheffield's high standing in arts education. With musical activities being an essential aspect for undergraduate and postgraduate students in the department, the investment ensures access to world-leading pianos during their studies. 

One of the highlights of the accreditation includes the arrival of a Steinway Model D Concert Grand piano in the University of Sheffield's Firth Hall concert space. This will enable student performances to be showcased at the highest standard. 

The Steinway Grand Model D is the gold standard of musical instruments, representing over 160 years of dedication to craftsmanship and uncompromised expression. It is for these reasons that over 19 out of 20 concert pianists choose the Steinway Grand Model— and why the instrument remains at the heart of cultured homes the world over - Steinway & Sons. 

 The prestige that comes with owning a Steinway Model D Concert Grand will provide a ideal platform to welcome world-class artists to the city region for performances and collaborations.

Closely associated with the Department of Music is the University of Sheffield Concert Series. This is a yearly programme of dynamic musical events. The Sheffield Concert Series is a home for musical discovery, learning and participation. The programme producer, Nick Potter, shares his enthusiasm of the announcement. 

This is an incredible opportunity for the Concerts Series to grow and develop its programme. Both the Model D and All- Steinway School credential will allow students and our audience access to a higher level of performers - for both recitals and masterclasses. The arrival of the pianos also fittingly runs in parallel with our long term goal of developing the core classical programming for the coming series. We're hugely excited to return to live music with such an astonishing instrument at the heart of our work.

Nick Potter 

Music Programme Producer,  Sheffield Concert Series

Learn more about Sheffield Concert series, and their upcoming events:

Sheffield Concert Series 

Department of Music 

Providing this high quality level of equipment demonstrates a commitment to excellence and an enriched educational experience. With access to a rich tone and pristine touch that Steinway & Sons pianos offer, students are able to realise their artistic talents that best prepares them to compete at the highest level in the professional world.

A selection of pianos will be housed at the heart of campus in the Jessop building, home to the Department of Music. Pianos will also be located in the specialist sound recording and practice facilities: The Soundhouse and the University of Sheffield Sound Studios. This will provide an excellent experience for music staff and students during individual practice, rehearsals and lessons. 

As a partner to Steinway & Sons, music students will have the advantage of accessing exclusive masterclasses at the London showroom. Music royalty such as Lang Lang and John Williams are associated with the brand, alongside 1,500 other 'Steinway artists' who act as global ambassadors for the Steinway legacy. The Department of Music is thrilled to become part of this expert global community and look forward to students enjoying access to a new suite of pianos in the department. 

View The Department of Music facilities 

Timeline of activities 

Date  Activity
June 2020 Steinway status announcement 
March 2021

Piano's selected

Piano's delivered

Steinway accreditation received 

March 2021 onwards Launch events - Details to be announced soon

A world-class university – a unique student experience

Sheffield is a research university with a global reputation for excellence. We're a member of the Russell Group: one of the 24 leading UK universities for research and teaching.