John Brinsmead
d. March 17, 1908 (aged 92) · English
Biography
John Brinsmead started in the piano business in 1837. In 1862 he patented a repetition action, refining it through seven further patents, the last in 1885. His sons Edgar and Thomas James took an active role in managing the growing firm, which became one of the leading English piano makers and was appointed piano maker to the Prince of Wales and, in 1911, to King George V, winning forty prize medals and diplomas at expositions. In 1870 Brinsmead was elected an honorary member of France's Académie Nationale, and in 1878 he was decorated with the cross of the Legion of Honor. Leading artists endorsed his pianos in concert use. He died on March 17, 1908, at the age of 92.
Highlights
- Started his piano business in 1837 and patented a repetition action in 1862 (seven related patents followed)
- Firm named piano makers to the Prince of Wales and, from 1911, King George V
- Elected honorary member of France's Académie Nationale (1870) and awarded the Legion of Honor (1878)
Source
Alfred Dolge, Pianos and Their Makers, Vol. I (1911), p. 247.
Public domain.