Colour: Black Polyester
Year: 1994

The Yamaha C3 is one of the most popular and enduring grand pianos ever made, a 186cm instrument from Yamaha's prestigious C Series that has been the benchmark for professional grand pianos in studios, conservatoires, and home music rooms worldwide for decades. This c.1994 example, finished in polished black polyester and priced at £14,995, delivers the outstanding musical versatility, reliable touch, and warm, powerful tone that have made the C3 the first choice of pianists at every level.

The C3 offers significantly more tonal depth and dynamic range than a baby grand, and this example has been thoroughly assessed and prepared by our specialist technicians at The Piano Gallery to ensure it performs to the highest standard.

Available to purchase online or to try in person at our Oxfordshire showroom. Contact us to arrange a viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Yamaha C3 so highly regarded?

The C3 sits at the heart of Yamaha's professional grand piano range, large enough to offer serious tonal depth and dynamic range, yet compact enough to fit into many home music rooms. It is the most widely used professional grand piano in the world, found in conservatoires, recording studios, and the homes of serious pianists on every continent. The combination of Yamaha's build consistency, reliable action, and musical versatility makes it a benchmark instrument at this size.

How does the Yamaha C3 compare to a Yamaha C2 or C1?

The C3 at 186cm is notably larger than the C2 (173cm) and C1 (161cm), and the difference in sound is immediately noticeable. Longer strings and a bigger soundboard give the C3 a fuller, more resonant bass, greater dynamic range, and a more authoritative overall presence. For a player who plays seriously and wants an instrument that will remain inspiring as their playing develops, the C3 is significantly better than its smaller siblings.

How does the Yamaha C3 compare to a Steinway O or Bechstein grand at a similar price?

A Steinway Model O or Bechstein grand offers a more individually characterful European sound with greater tonal complexity and heritage. The Yamaha C3 offers unmatched consistency, modern reliability, and Yamaha's globally trusted action. Many serious pianists prefer the Yamaha for its predictability and versatility; others prefer the European instruments for their character and warmth. We stock all three and strongly encourage you to play them before deciding.

Is a 1994 Yamaha C3 a reliable instrument?

The 1990s were an excellent period of Yamaha grand production and a well-maintained 1994 C3 is a very reliable instrument indeed. This example has been thoroughly assessed and prepared by our specialist technicians and is in excellent playing condition.

How long will a Yamaha C3 last?

A well-maintained Yamaha C3 should give 50 to 60 years or more of professional-level performance. Regular tuning twice yearly, periodic regulation and voicing, and correct placement away from heat and damp are all that is needed. This 1994 example has many more decades of excellent service ahead of it.