Pianist Drew Petersen performed at the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth on Nov. 19, 2019, as part of the Matinee Musicale season. Petersen is an acclaimed soloist, praised for his interpretations from Bach to Zaimont. Along with a performing career, he has been featured on radio programs such as Performance Today and From the Top.
Along with his fantastic performance, there was intrigue surrounding the instrument he played on.
The College of St. Scholastica purchased the piano in the 1970s and believed it to be a Steinway from 1916. By the 1990s, it was in need of repairs and got a new lease on life in 2016.
During the restoration, there was a surprising discovery. Rather than the believed date of 1916, hidden under the damper was a stamped date of May 18, 1892.
Someone had tried to fraudulently make the piano appear newer than it was, and in the process hid its unique charm and mastery from its performers.
Now, the 1892 Steinway has been restored to its full glory. You can hear its brilliance through Petersen's performance. Listen using the player above.
Program
• J. S. Bach: Partita No. 5 in G major
• Franz Schubert: Fantasy in C major (Wanderer Fantasy)
• Frederic Chopin: Barcarolle
• Enrique Granados: Valses Poeticos
• Samuel Barber: Piano Sonata in E minor
• (Encore: Claude Debussy — Clair de Lune)
Love the music?
Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.
Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.
YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.
