Robert tuning a 1942 Steinway Model L piano once owned by famed songwriter Hugh Martin, who wrote the song "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." first performed by Judy Garland in the movie "Meet Me In St. Louis." Photo by Ronnie Rosenberg-Friedman
Through his work over the past 40 years, these musical treasures have found their place in the hearts of new owners worldwide. With the help of the thousands of people in his network, his never-ending search continues for Steinways manufactured from 1853 to the present. Robert lives with his wife, Ronnie, in New York’s beautiful Hudson Valley. Together they share seven children and thirteen grandchildren, spread far and wide. When he’s not on the hunt for pianos, Robert enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and playing guitars, drums, and pianos.
"Through the years, some people in my industry who know me well and some people whose pianos have found new homes with my help have suggested that I write a book about my travels hunting for Steinways. The first time I located and sold a piano was in 1971. From that first piano buy, the stories began. The tale that unfolded from each locate made the journey and the people who were involved in the process part of the history of that piano. Although the methods have evolved, the events of the past forty-plus years are the reason I’m still strongly involved in the business that I started.
"Through nationwide advertising, consistent networking, and endless hours of driving in some of the most treacherous weather, I have done more to expand the vintage Steinway piano market than anyone else. I have made thousands of Steinway pianos available to be restored by the finest piano restoration experts in the world and to ultimately find a new home.
I hope you enjoy the read as much as I enjoyed the write."
All the best . . . Bob Friedman
Bob at his father's childhood piano, at 14 months old
Bob and Ronnie enjoying life together