The search for a piano worthy of a brand new Performing Arts Center at Hastings High School started with a phone call by former Hastings Choral Director, Patti LaJoye, to Steinway Piano Gallery’s Institutional Director, Wilbur Miller. At that time, the center was still under construction, but Patti and Spencer White, the high school’s band director, had already envisioned an instrument built by Steinway & Sons, the world’s finest piano. Patti put the word out in the community, and a couple well-known for their generosity, Larry and Earlene Baum, stepped forward to fund the new Steinway.
Patti and her husband Joe, Hastings Band Director Spencer White, and accompanist Mark Ramsey made a visit to Steinway Piano Gallery of Detroit to make comparisons. They selected a Steinway Model D Concert Grand, known as CD216. Before delivery, Steinway’s Service Department went over every detail of the piano, ensuring the instrument’s tone and cabinet were spectacular.
The piano was delivered to the new Hastings Performing Arts Center on September 4th. The Steinway Open House on October 19th was an exciting celebration and debut of the new instrument. Mr. Terry Lower, local jazz artist, performed along with Patti and Spencer. Following the performance, community members, students, and others enjoyed their own special moments on the Steinway. Refreshments with a special piano cake were available afterwards.
If you envision a piano by Steinway & Sons onstage in your high school auditorium, our Institutional Director, Wilbur Miller, is eager to help you make a dream come true! You can contact him at wmiller@steinwaydetroit.com or 248-560-9200.
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