Keeping the craft alive: reflections from Europiano France in Paris
June 23, 2025 - Piano Industry Magazine
At the end of April, Paris played host to one of the piano industry's key professional gatherings: the Europiano France Congress. Organized by Europiano France, the event brought together a diverse mix of piano builders, tuners, restorers, dealers, students, and young professionals for three vibrant days of exchange and discovery.
The congress offered a rich program of seminars, general assemblies, and a trade exhibition featuring top-tier suppliers of piano parts and accessories. Renowned companies like Jahn Pianoteile were on hand to present their latest solutions for piano technicians and workshops.
One of the central topics of this year’s congress was piano preservation — with a special focus on modern humidity control. The Dampp-Chaser system received particular attention, thanks to its ability to maintain stable humidity levels inside instruments, protecting them from climate-related damage and extending their lifespan. Technician Nicolas Schaeffer led live demonstrations, giving attendees insight into how the system works and is installed. Although the packed program left little time for extended conversations, interest in the technology was strong, especially among those looking for long-term maintenance solutions.
Alongside the technical discussions, broader industry issues were addressed — most notably the fragile state of the French piano market, weakened by a sharp decline in domestic production. This trend has increased reliance on imported, high-quality tools and parts from abroad, making events like this even more essential.
Despite the challenges, the mood was optimistic. Professionals appreciated the opportunity to connect, learn, and engage with new products and ideas. For many, the congress served not just as a professional platform, but as a reminder of the passion and resilience that keep the piano industry moving forward.
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