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Alex Henderson could be described as a piano 'veteran', having been in the piano trade since he was 16 years old.  In 1980 he undertook a 4 year apprenticeship with Bluthner Pianos, learning the art of piano restoration from craftsmen whose knowledge has been passed down through generations.  Bluthner is one of the world's most prestigious manufacturers/restorers, with a 150 year history of quality and innovation.

Steinway, Bechstein and Bosendorfer pianos are the other brands which make up the "Big Four" elite.   Queen Victoria and Albert Einstein were proud Bluthner owners.

Alex was trained to Bluthner's very strict standards - the workshop environment providing plenty of repair and restoration work to perfect his craft.  As Bluthner were the UK's only importer and agent for Bechstein Pianos - Alex was responsible for their technical preparation before they went to their new homes.

The London Piano Workshop

Bluthner factory in Perivale, West London

A further 10 years with the company broadened his experience and gave him the opportunity to work on instruments belonging to composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, the Abbey Road (The Beatles) studios and Britain's top store, Harrods.  

In 1993 Alex visited Australia and instantly loved the Australian lifestyle, people and weather! A year later he migrated and established his own piano business in Sydney.  Alex also works as a consultant to one of Sydney's leading piano retailers on the lower north shore, ensuring their second hand instruments perform to their best.  

In Australia, he has prepared pianos for Australian cricket's fast bowler Brett Lee, journalist Jana Wendt, Australian supergroup Midnight Oil's Jim Moginie, music industry awards "The Arias" and the world's most popular entertainers - The Wiggles!  He is currently restoring a Bluthner grand piano which will feature in the upcoming Baz Luhrman epic "Australia" starring Nicole Kidman & Hugh Jackman.

In 2002 Alex was featured in the Sydney Morning Herald, talking about his experiences and work in the piano industry.

Alex has also cared for pianos belonging to Angus Wood, former principal tenor with Opera Australia and Vanessa  Scammell, B.Mus.(HONS), B.Mus Ed. 

Vanessa is a professional pianist whose impressive catalogue of work includes Phantom of the Opera, Showboat, the NYE Concert at the Sydney Opera House, Romancing the Night (Peter Cousens & Jane Rutter in concert) and Chicago. She is currently conducting "Phantom of the Opera" starring Anthony Warlow in Melbourne.

Japanese Kawai piano

She has also accompanied workshops conducted by opera great Dame Joan Sutherland. Her freelance work includes concert engagements with Opera Australia, the VSO, The Sydney Philharmonia and The Opera House. Her work has been broadcast on ABC FM and 3MBS FM

Vanessa has kindly written this testamonial for Alex:

"Alex Henderson is one of the most highly skilled piano technicians I know.  His knowledge of the materials and action of a piano allows each instrument to be played at its peak. I have personally had the good fortune to have had Alex work on both keyboard action and sound production of my own Kawai Grand Piano such that it is in prime condition. As a professional pianist, it is invaluable to have a technician who understands so well the needs of the player and the value of a responsive instrument."

You can read more about Bluthner Pianos at their website.  www.bluthner-piano.co.uk