In 1825, Boston piano maker Alpheus Babcock replaced part of the wooden frame with one piece of iron; the change let pianos become louder and more powerful

Alpheus Babcock's revolutionary cast iron piano frame marked a pivotal shift in piano craftsmanship and tuning practices. Though initially met with skepticism, this innovation found its way into the hearts of piano makers. Jonas Chickering subsequently refined the concept, producing sturdier pianos with richer sound. Today, the cast iron frame is a staple in piano manufacturing, enriching our musical experiences across various genres.