RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, December 9, 2025 ­– The Saudi Music Commission, one of 11 sector-specific commissions under the Ministry of Culture, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Steinway & Sons, the world’s foremost piano manufacturer celebrated globally for its handcrafted pianos and pioneering innovations in piano design and manufacturing. This MoU represents a pivotal advance that empowers and accelerates the ongoing development and professionalization of Saudi Arabia’s music sector.

The agreement was formalized in Riyadh by Mr. Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, and Mr. Guido Zimmermann, President of Steinway & Sons EMEA. Through this momentous partnership, both entities will collaborate to empower talent, enhance professional training, and expand access to world-class musical instruments.

This collaboration not only advances artistic and educational plans but also serves as a foundation for enabling significant commercial partnerships and business investment in the Kingdom’s music sector. These efforts reflect the Music Commission’s continued participation in supporting and fostering sustainable growth.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the Saudi Music Commission and Steinway & Sons will explore joint initiatives to develop apprenticeship programs for piano technicians, enable joint participation in Music Commission initiatives and events, and facilitate connections with cultural, educational, and retail partners across Saudi Arabia.

This partnership reinforces the Saudi Music Commission’s commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable Music ecosystem; one that celebrates creativity, supports cultural exchange, and nurtures artistic excellence. The Commission’s activity drives the creation of essential infrastructure, encouraging commercial investment, unlocking new business opportunities, and supporting revenues for local and global music enterprises, ensuring the long-term economic growth of the sector.

Mr. Paul Pacifico, CEO of the Saudi Music Commission, said: “This partnership with Steinway & Sons is a milestone in our mission to further empower musical talent across Saudi Arabia. By combining global expertise with local creativity, we are building a lasting framework for education, performance, and craftsmanship. Our work at the Saudi Music Commission is not only nurturing talent and creativity but is also actively shaping a music market that welcomes industry leaders, generates investment, and supports sustainable growth for businesses and practitioners alike. Together, we remain committed to nurturing music’s enduring role at the heart of Saudi life and culture, inspiring generations to come.”

Mr. Guido Zimmermann, President of Steinway & Sons EMEA, commented: “Saudi Arabia is entering an extraordinary chapter in its cultural journey, and we are honored to support this transformation. This partnership with the Saudi Music Commission reflects our long-term commitment to education, talent development, and the craft of music-making. At Steinway & Sons, we believe that meaningful cultural growth is built through strong institutions, world-class training, and access to the finest instruments. Together, we look forward to helping nurture a new generation of Saudi musicians, technicians, and educators, while bringing the joy of music to the entire community and contributing to the Kingdom’s cultural legacy for decades to come.”

The signing of this MoU marks a significant step in the Saudi Music Commission’s continuing efforts to further advance the music sector through industry partnerships and global collaboration. It reinforces the Commission’s commitment to building robust sectoral infrastructure, developing and sustaining talent, and supporting commercial investment that drives long-term economic growth. Together, the Saudi Music Commission and Steinway & Sons are poised to inspire a new generation of musicians and contribute meaningfully to Saudi Arabia’s artistic landscape; bridging tradition, innovation, and the universal language of music.

About the Ministry of Culture:

Saudi Arabia has a vast history of arts and culture. The Ministry of Culture is developing Saudi Arabia’s cultural economy and enriching the daily lives of citizens, residents, and visitors.

Overseeing 11 sector-specific commissions, the Ministry works towards the support of and preservation of a vibrant culture that is true to its past and looks to the future by cherishing heritage and unleashing new and inspiring forms of expression for all.

Find the Ministry of Culture on social media:
X @MOCSaudi (Arabic); @MOCSaudi_En (English) | Instagram @mocsaudi

About the Music Commission:

The Music Commission, one of the Ministry of Culture’s 11 sector-specific commissions, was launched in 2020 to oversee the development of the Kingdom’s music sector.  

The Commission supports the growth of the music sector and provides universal access to music education and empowers musical talent. It aims to increase the economic contribution of the music sector through job creation, sector regulation and by building world-class infrastructure.

To learn more about the Music Commission, please visit https://music.moc.gov.sa/en  and the commission’s page on X @MOC_Music

About Steinway & Sons:

Since 1853, Steinway pianos have set an uncompromising standard for sound, touch, beauty, and value. Because of a dedication to continuous improvement, today’s Steinway remains the choice of 9 out of 10 concert artists and is the preferred piano of countless musicians, professional and amateur, throughout the world. Steinway’s latest innovation is the Steinway Spirio, the world’s finest high resolution player piano. A masterpiece of artistry and engineering, Spirio delivers performances played by great pianists — captured with such nuance, power, and passion that they are utterly indistinguishable from a live performance. For more information on all Steinway pianos, visit www.steinway.com.

Find Steinway & Sons on social media:
Linkedin @Steinway&Sons
Instagram @SteinwayandSons
Facebook @Steinway & Sons
X @steinwayandsons