Chickering piano to debut in Coeur d'Alene
Coeur d'Alene Press | UPDATED 15 years AGO
Piano lovers have a unique opportunity to hear a restored 1920s Chickering piano in its debut public performance on Oct. 2 at the Scharelant Center in Coeur d'Alene.
The 4-6 p.m. Sunday concert will feature not only the piano, but also the voice of baritone Max Mendez who will be accompanied by Cynthia Marlette in classical selections followed by Ruth Pratt, accompanied by Pearl Harwood with cabaret and popular melodies to display the Chickering's versatility.
Chickering, a name unfamiliar to many, was the oldest piano company in America, predating Steinway. This piano has been completely rebuilt and restored by piano professional, Scott Cowles. At the interval, Cowles will talk about the piano, its history and its restoration.
The sale of the piano, bequeathed to Opera Coeur d'Alene in 2007 by Marjorie Winderman, an early supporter of the company, will establish the Marjorie Winderman Fund at the Inland Northwest Community Foundation.
The fund is specifically to provide financial support for aspiring opera singers in the Inland Northwest.
This fund will be an adjunct to the Opera Coeur d'Alene Endowment for Opera Excellence, also at INCF. Both funds accept donations.
Reservations at $30 per person are limited to 50 to insure the intimate setting the piano demands to enrich its sound. Contact Mark Faulkner, 664-2827.