Ivory keys on Bechstein Louis XV piano dismay environmentalists

http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2013/jun/07/ivory-keys-bechstein-piano-dismays-environmentalists


The replica Bechstein Louis XV grand piano. The original was made for Queen Victoria. Photograph: Bechstein

It is undeniably impressive with its intricate woodcarving, abundant gold leaf and stunning miniature paintings in the style of Watteau, but should a grand piano produced in 2013 have real ivory-topped keys?

The debate has been sparked by what is billed as one of the most luxurious and expensive pianos ever produced: a Bechstein Louis XV piano which took three years to make and celebrates the German company's 160th anniversary.

It is based on designs by the company's founder. The original was made for Queen Victoria and the company has tried to be as faithful as possible to Carl Bechstein's 19th century specifications, and that includes – although not mentioned in press material – real ivory key tops for one of two keyboards.

The decision has dismayed environmental charities. Will Travers, chief executive of the Born Free Foundation, said an estimated 32,000 elephants were killed for their ivory in the past year. "It is as serious as it has been for 30 years," he said. "We are all responding to this crisis and in a sense we all have to do our bit. One thing which is extremely important is to not accentuate the perception of value but to dampen down the desirability."