Designed in the art-deco style prevalent when Roger Williams was born, this piano reflects architectural lines from that historic period, and features a gold-metallic finish accented by a high-gloss top coat. Lyrics to the first verse of Mr. William's "Autumn Leaves", the best-selling piano recording of all time, decorate the piano's perimeter, with falling autumn leaves between each line of the verse. Signature notes from "Autumn Leaves" adorn the music desk and on the inside the piano has a masterful custom-painted autumn landscape.
The Roger Williams Gold Piano was made available in both Model B and Model D sizes. This very historic piano made its debut in a performance by Roger Williams on October 1, 2004 at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library—on the 80th birthday of both Roger Williams and President Jimmy Carter.
Frank Pollaro
East Orange, New Jersey
Frank Pollaro is one of the leading veneer craftsman in the United States today. He is known for his complex veneer and inlaid designs, and his furniture has been featured in the Neuberger Museum at SUNY Purchase, on television, and in numerous publications. Mr. Pollaro has designed many art case pianos for Steinway & Sons. One of these is an Art Deco design that can now be seen and heard in the Petrossian Lounge at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. In 1999, Mr Pollaro designed the midnight blue "Rhapsody" Steinway honoring Steinway artist George Gershwin. His art case piano, "Diamonds on Satin," demonstrates that Mr. Pollaro's creative talents take design to an inspired level. In 2004, Mr. Pollaro designed the gold piano that commemorated the 80th birthday of Steinway Artist Roger Williams, entitled "Autumn Leaves."