The golden grand piano in Parliament is to be replaced by a “simple piano”.

Even in National Council meetings, the opposition had criticized the rental costs of 3,000 euros per month for the Bösendorfer.

“Art and culture are very important in Austria. Unfortunately, the political polarization in this case outshined many other positive aspects in the newly renovated House,” the President’s Office commented on the Bösendorfer debate. After examining several options, Sobotka decided to buy a black piano. “Discussions are ongoing.”

The grand piano in the special “Secession” version is currently still in the reception room of the renovated Parliament. Recently, even a purchase of the gilded grand piano had been considered, but this was rejected again. The six-month lease with Bösendorfer expires in June.