The Art Case Collection - Rhapsody
- Art and Music in Perfect Harmony
- Many Artists Inspired by Steinway
- First Art Case Steinway Grand Piano (#1225)
By Frank Pollaro
Model D (concert grand) and B
Brilliant, captivating, inspiring. The words that describe this art deco piano equally apply to its inspiration: legendary Steinway artist George Gershwin. Crafted in tribute to the 100th anniversary of his birth, the piano is dyed in brilliant blue and over 400 mother-of-pearl stars have been hand cut into the piano and inlaid in random fashion. The plate is gilded in silver to give the impression that the piano is emanating light when it is opened.
Frank Pollaro
East Orange, New Jersey
Frank Pollaro is one of the leading veneer craftsmen in the United States today. His complex veneered and inlaid furniture has been featured in numerous publications, on television, and in the Neuberger Museum at SUNY Purchase.
On being asked to design the Rhapsody piano for Steinway in honor of Steinway artist George Gershwin, Pollaro commented "It seemed only natural to have this piano studded in stars. To me the stars represent Broadway, America, and most importantly, the shining star that Gershwin was to music."
Mr. Pollaro has said that his goal was to "pay tribute to the royalty that Gershwin was to music." Those of us at Steinway & Sons are pleased to say that he has.