Three All-Steinway Anniversaries And The Women Who Made Them Possible
Three All-Steinway Schools that came into being through extraordinary women whose vision and generosity paved the way for future generations recently paid tribute with special anniversary celebrations.
A New Donor Helps Kennesaw State University Celebrate A Decade Of Steinways
Kennesaw State University commemorated the 10th anniversary of the Dr. Bobbie Bailey & Family Performance Center in October, featuring alumnus and Steinway Artist Robert Henry performing Chopin’s “Ballade No. 3 in A-flat, Op. 47.” The late Dr. Bailey made KSU an All-Steinway School with gifts in excess of $2 million. Katherine Scott recently gifted $500,000 to the School of Music in part to help maintain the fleet of 47 Steinways. “I love pianos and these Steinways are so special they are like beautiful pieces of art,” she said, referring to two Model D concert grands on stage at the school’s rehearsal hall.
Columbus State Tenth Anniversary Celebration Concert
A gift from Maxine Schiffman of 67 Steinway pianos established the Schwob School of Music at Columbus State University as a national center for the study of piano and according to Director Scott Harris, catapulted the program to internationally-renowned status. “The impact of becoming an All-Steinway School was profound and pervasive,” he said as the school celebrated its 10th anniversary on January 14th at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts.
Columbus State students make the All-Steinway anniversary extra special.
University Of West Florida Observes 12 Years As An All-Steinway School
On January 20th, the University of West Florida offered an exciting All-Liszt program for the 12th annual All-Steinway Piano Celebration at the Pensacola campus. Alumnus Matt Wood interpreted “Mephisto Waltz No.1 S. 514” to a standing ovation of about 200 guests at the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Music Hall. UWF initiated the popular showcase that features students and alumni as a way to honor Helen and Warren Wentworth, who donated 18 Steinway pianos.
UWF students, alumni and faculty take a bow at the 12th Annual All-Steinway Concert.