Prestigious Steinway grand pianos share Perth Concert Hall stage

-Credit: (Image: Fraser Band)
-Credit: (Image: Fraser Band)


Two iconic Steinway grand pianos shared the stage of Perth Concert Hall earlier this month.

The venue’s grand piano since it opened in 2005 was recently replaced with a brand-new instrument.

But before the older piano, on a 20 year lease, was returned to the manufacturers it joined its successor for a special recital.

READ MORE:West Lothian couple's 'love at first sight' marriage rocked by agonising 11-month visa delay

READ MORE:Man arrested after "disturbance" in Rosshead area of Alexandria

Both are the Steinway D models, the preferred choice of concert pianists.

Edinburgh-based pianist Steven Osborne had selected the original Steinway and also chose its replacement, which is on a renewable lease.

He teamed up with fellow pianist Paul Lewis from Liverpool for an afternoon of Music for Two Pianos on Sunday 6 October to celebrate the new and send off the old.

Steven had visited the Steinway factory in Hamburg to test run a range of contenders for the Perth venue.

He said: “I have been so excited to choose a new Steinway for Perth Concert Hall.

“My visit to the Steinway factory enabled me to select a fine new instrument to follow in the footsteps of the excellent and much-loved piano which has served Perth Concert Hall so well over the last 20 years.

“Sunday October 6 was very poignant as, uniquely, we had both Steinways on the stage, welcoming one and bidding farewell to the other.

“To do this in partnership with my great friend and colleague Paul Lewis was very special indeed.”

The performance of duets by Schubert, Schumann and Brahms saw the two pianists swap between the two instruments in a mesmerising display of musicianship and camaraderie that will live long in the memories of those attending.

Perth Theatre and Concert Hall creative director of classical music James Waters said: “It’s fantastic to have a new Steinway in the building and we are hugely grateful to Steven for making such an important selection for us once again. His expertise has resulted in an instrument that is carefully matched to the pattern of music we present in Perth Concert Hall, allowing us to continue to curate a classical programme of the highest standard.

“The outgoing Steinway has been treasured by international musical stars, broadcasters and audiences alike over the past 20 years, so it was essential to get the decision absolutely right. I am confident that we have found just the right piano for the job.”

There are more opportunities for audiences to appreciate Perth Concert Hall’s new Steinway during the current season with upcoming performances including Danny Driver’s Lunchtime Concert of Bach’s Goldberg Variations on Monday November 11 and a return of Steven Osborne with Alban Gerhardt on Tuesday November 12 as part of Perth Concert Hall’s Classical Stars series.

For tickets and information on the classical programme and other shows coming up in Perth Theatre and Concert Hall visit perththeatreandconcerthall.com or call or visit the Box Office in Perth Theatre (10:00 – 18:00 Tuesday to Saturday, 01738 621031).