Help Support the Steinway Piano Fund
Steinway Factory 1916
The BSO’ s selection experience will take place in the recently renovated Selection Room at Steinway’ s factory in New York City, where artistic leadership will engage in the careful evaluation of multiple instruments. Each piano presents a unique tonal character. Through a process of comparative listening and performance, the instrument selected will emerge as the one best suited to the Meyerhoff’ s acoustic environment and the BSO’ s artistic priorities.
To select the right instrument, the BSO will have special help from of an extraordinary Steinway Artist. Such participation is important to ensure that the chosen instrument will meet the highest international standards, capable of supporting the full breadth of repertoire presented on the Meyerhoff stage.
In addition to the selection itself, BSO staff( and special guests) will take an immersive tour of the Steinway factory— an experience that offers a rare and meaningful window into the craftsmanship behind each instrument. A chance to observe the piano-making process firsthand, from raw materials to the final stages of voicing and preparation, grants an even greater appreciation for the artistry and precision that defines a Steinway piano.
The selection of this instrument is an investment in artistic excellence, a reaffirmation of the BSO’ s commitment to world-class performance, and an opportunity to connect the Baltimore community more deeply to the craftsmanship and decision-making that shape the music heard on the Meyerhoff stage.
The selection of a new Steinway Model D is, ultimately, the beginning of the instrument’ s life with the BSO— one that will support generations of artists and audiences at the Meyerhoff for decades to come.
Acquiring a new world-class instrument requires bold generosity. The 2025 BSO Academy Class launched the BSO’ s $ 250,000 piano fund campaign with a first-ever class gift in honor of BSO Resident Keyboardist, Lura Johnson. Thanks to early supporters, we are more than halfway to our goal. With a selection trip planned for the summer, and incredible pianists joining us in the 2026 – 27 season like Evgeny Kissin, Garrick Ohlsson,
SOUNDBOARD.... $ 15,000 PLATE........... $ 12,500 BRIDGE.......... $ 10,000 RIM.............. $ 10,000 BENCH............ $ 7,500 PEDAL............ $ 5,000
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WE WERE HONORED TO MAKE A GIFT TO THE PIANO FUND IN MEMORY OF MY MOTHER, RUTH ANN PENCE, WHO WAS A GIFTED PIANIST.
— Bill and Kathleen Pence
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Jean-Yves Thibaudet and more, it is critical that we reach our goal before the close of the fiscal year in August.
Help us acquire our first Steinway Model D in 25 years by sponsoring a symbolic part or key! With over 12,000 parts to choose from, there are many options and gift levels. We have also been inspired by donors who have donated a part or key in honor of a family member or memory of a loved one.
SUGGESTED GIVING LEVELS: LEG.............. $ 5,000 KEY.............. $ 2,500 HAMMER.......... $ 1,000 STRING............ $ 500 TUNING PIN........ $ 250
Pedal and key donors are encouraged to identify their preferred note / part.
LEARN MORE & DONATE ONLINE AT: www. BSOmusic. org / PianoFund
If you have questions about the BSO’ s Steinway Piano Fund, please contact Allison Burr-Livingstone at ablivingstone @ BSOmusic. org or call( 410) 783-8034.
Gifts to the Piano Fund are fully deductible and do not count towards BSO Membership. Donors of $ 10,000 + are eligible to join the selection trip in New York City this summer.
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