Steinway Notes With Sorrow The Passing Of Steinway Artist Rosi Grunschlag

The House of Steinway & Sons notes with profound sorrow the passing of the eminent pianist, Rosi Grunschlag on January 15, 2012 in New York City. Rosi was born in Vienna and studied at the State Academy of Music together with her sister Toni, who died almost exactly five years ago. Rosi came to the United States in 1939. It was in 1940 that Olin Downes, the distinguished critic of the NY Times heard the sisters play at Steinway Hall and encouraged them to pursue a career as duo-pianists. Their playing was characterized by a seamless blending of two distinct personalities which produced a complete musical unity. Their programs showed a wide range of styles from the classical repertoire to compositions by contemporary composers. Some works were written especially for them.

A documentary entitled “Toni & Rosi,” an account of their long life together is scheduled to be broadcast on Sunday, January 29th on BBC 4 Television.

Rosi will be greatly missed and long remembered by her family, friends and students.