Dennis Hagerty

Video

Oral History Information

Interview Date
Job Title
Founder
Company Name
Keyboard Concepts

Dennis Hagerty, the founder and retired president of Keyboard Concepts, embarked on his musical journey as a teenager, drawn to the piano's enchanting melodies. In 1972, under the guidance of mentor Lou Como, Dennis honed his skills in piano tuning and repair, later joining Owen Piano Company in 1973 under the mentorship of Bob and Maggie Owen and then Colton Piano in 1982 working with industry luminaries such as Harry Heideman, Bob Tacket and Vern Schafer. Inspired by the legacy of piano dealer David L. Abell, Dennis forged his path, establishing Keyboard Concepts in 1983. With a steadfast dedication to excellence, Dennis and his first hire, Jeff Falgien built Keyboard Concepts into a thriving enterprise of five locations, introducing Southern California to premier piano brands like Yamaha and Bosendorfer. Over the years, Dennis and Jeff nurtured the company's expansion and fostered a legacy that spans multiple locations in California. Jeff Falgien left the company in 2020 to relocate with his family to the Midwest.

In 2022, Dennis passed the baton, leaving behind a lasting imprint on the musical landscape, as Keyboard Concepts continues to flourish under the stewardship of Josh Faust and the Faust Harrison Pianos of New York.