Renee Trinca of Schoenhut
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After a
Century, They're Still Playing the Same Tune
By Kris Decker
November 1, 2002
|
Renee Trinca of Schoenhut |
In 1872,
German-born immigrant Albert Schoenhut fashioned a toy piano for his landlord's
daughter. At the time, he probably never imagined one of his creations would be
played in a venue like Carnegie Hall. But last April, Margaret Leng Tan,
considered "the world's premiere string piano virtuoso," did just
that. Schoenhut himself might have been surprised, but toy piano aficionados
were not.
Renee Trinca, co-owner/operator of Schoenhut Piano Company,
Inc. (toypiano.com) confirms that toy pianos have a wide appeal. "Lots of
professional musicians use Schoenhut toy pianos in their recordings because they
have such a rich, chime-like tone." Renee and husband Len Trinca bought the Schoenhut Piano
Company seven years ago, recognizing the value of quality and craftsmanship that
has been a Schoenhut tradition for decades. But why would two people with
"no musical background" purchase a toy piano company? "We'd just never seen anything like [the pianos]
before…they were a beautiful, unique product."
 Schoenhut Young Player - Max |
Additionally, Schoenhut pianos feature the patented tri-play
learning system, a color-coordinated technique that matches color- and
tone-association to every note. And despite its "real musical
instrument" status, each Schoenhut is built to endure rough play by any
level of performer.
"As soon as kids are able to sit up on their own, they're
ready to start playing one of our pianos," laughs Trinca. "An employee
just brought their six-month-old in and he was infatuated by a little red piano
I have."
During their first year of business, the Trincas really only expected orders to come from toy stores. They were pleased to discover that the market stretched beyond that to include professional musicians, schools, museums, catalog companies, gift and department stores. Business has increased 10-12% every year since then.
 Schoenhut Baby Grand Piano |
So how can a centuries-old company keep their product line fresh and exciting? Designing new models every year stimulates a steady growth in sales, as well as continuing to offer popular favorites, like the Classic Baby Grand, the Traditional Spinet and My First Piano.
However, success for this company is not simply defined in terms of sales. Schoenhuts is a family-type business where office staff and factory workers are also best friends. Located in St. Augustine, Florida, the Schoenhut team reports for work early each day, (so they can hit the beach in the afternoon, reports Trinca). Hard work and long hours don't faze these employees. They're all just happy to be a part of the Schoenhut Company's continued success.
In an era of electronic toys and computerized playthings, some might find it surprising that Schoenhut Piano Company continues to be successful.
"I don't think classic toys will ever go out of style," says Renee Trinca.
Obviously
collectors, professional musicians, and most importantly, thousands of children
around the world would agree.
Industry
Overview: Music
and Toys Product
Summary:
Musical
CD's, Cassettes, Videos and DVD's for the Younger Set
Musical
Toys Spotlight
Nothing
Like The Real Thing, Baby
What the Experts Say: PLAY
IT AGAIN, SAM