The legendary Steinway & Sons Model D Horowitz Piano, CD 503, will continue its ongoing tour of North America with an upcoming stop at Steinway & Sons Greenwich. This piano – a nine-foot concert grand and one of Steinway’s most revered designs – provides a rare opportunity for the public to see, hear, touch and even play the fabled instrument that accompanied classical titan Vladimir Horowitz (1903-1989) on tours. The piano will be on display and available for playing opportunities Wednesday, July 31 through Sunday, Aug. 4 at Steinway & Sons Greenwich, 72 Greenwich Ave.
Horowitz is widely considered one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century. His colorful personality and astounding performances enthralled audiences for decades. Early in 1934, Steinway & Sons presented Horowitz and his wife Wanda with a Steinway Model D, Serial #279503, as a wedding present. In the early 1940’s, this piano was replaced with #314503, now known simply as CD 503. This is the piano Horowitz kept in his New York townhouse. It was known to be one of the legendary concert pianist’s favorite instruments, and he used it in many recitals and recordings in the 70’s and 80’s. He would always insist that this piano be his exclusive touring instrument, and he required that it be craned out of his Manhattan apartment and delivered to the concert venue regardless of distance or cost.
The iconic Horowitz piano has inspired countless musicians, teachers, students, and Horowitz fans around the world. As an added point of interest, the underside of the soundboard features the signatures of the thousands of store owners, technicians, sales representatives, and delivery men who have cared for the piano during its travels over the last eight decades.
For the piano’s Greenwich appearance, members of the public may sign up for a time to play the piano by calling 203-227-8222 or visiting steinway.com. Following its stay in Connecticut, the Horowitz piano will continue its ongoing tour with the following stops:
• Steinway Piano Gallery, Long Island: Wednesday, Aug. 7 through Sunday, Aug. 11.
• Steinway Piano Gallery, Paramus: Wednesday, Aug. 14 through Saturday, Aug. 17.
