With a gently sweeping roofline that curves almost like the lid of a grand piano, Summitt Pianos, located off of Hixson Pike, is hard to miss. However, while many locals may recognize the building, not all know the history behind Chattanooga’s oldest, largest, and only locally owned piano store.
Owner Ted Summitt Jr. and his wife, Julie
Summitt Pianos’ story began more than 100 years ago with the founding of Lansford Piano Company, where Ted Summitt Sr. worked for many years as a tuner and technician. In 1991, the business would exchange hands as Summitt Sr. took over ownership and changed the store’s name to Summitt Pianos.
Over the years, the store would continue to proudly serve the community, offering acoustic pianos, keyboards, organs, and more. Eventually, the business would exchange hands once again – staying in the family tree – as Summitt Sr. passed ownership to Ted Summitt Jr., who worked closely with his dad for many years.
“At Summitt Pianos, we share a love for music and the timeless artistry of the piano,” says Summitt Jr. “Our mission is to support teachers, students, and families with quality instruments while fostering a community where music creates connection, growth, and lifelong memories.”
And over the years, the store has done just that – often hosting the Chattanooga Music Teachers Association recitals, annual auditions, and other musical events. Summitt Pianos also provides a Steinway & Sons nine-foot concert grand piano for area concerts and for the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera.
In 2018, Summitt Piano experienced a devastating loss when a fire destroyed the business’ longtime showroom. Though the store lost most of their stock to smoke and water damage, they proudly reopened at their new location along Hixson Pike just over a year later.
“While the fire was one of the greater challenges we’ve ever faced, it also reminded us of the strength of our community and the enduring passion for music that drives us,” shares Summitt Jr. “We are proud to continue our mission of inspiring music and enriching lives here in Chattanooga.”
Today, Summitt Pianos is proud to serve as the exclusive Yamaha Piano Dealer for the region, with an emphasis on providing a high-quality piano for every budget, from entry-level uprights to handmade concert grand pianos.
“When we received our first truckload of new Yamaha pianos, we sold two grands and an upright within 24 hours,” shares Summitt Jr. “One of the customers said her husband recently received an inheritance but would not buy himself anything. So, she surprised him with a new Yamaha grand piano – something he had always wanted.”
With more than a century-long history in the Chattanooga area, Summitt Pianos has weathered many challenges and built a rich legacy in the community. As Summitt Jr. and his team look to the future of the business, they remain committed to their dedication of quality and service.
“For the next 100 years, we hope Summitt Pianos continues to inspire creativity, nurture musicians, and bring the joy of music to every generation,” finishes Summitt Jr.
