NEW YORK, Feb. 28, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Another blast of frigid winter temperatures didn't deter more than one hundred people from attending a special event at historic Steinway Hall Wednesday night: the unveiling of the Dakota Jackson-designed Steinway & Sons 160th Anniversary "Arabesque" Limited Edition Piano. With only 50 of these pianos being sold worldwide, the Arabesque is an exclusive masterpiece representing the combined artistic vision of one of the world's most celebrated designers and the Steinway craftsmen who have brought his design to life. This week marks the first time the Arabesque is being seen by the public in New York.
At the event, Dakota Jackson offered remarks on his inspired design and mingled with guests during a cocktail reception. He later commented, "Unveiling the Arabesque Piano in historic Steinway Hall combined with the virtuosic performance by pianist Jenny Lin was the culmination of a seven year journey, an evening I will long cherish."
After the presentation, Steinway Artist Jenny Lin performed a concert on the Arabesque, bringing the exquisite instrument to life in the hallowed hall that has hosted some of the twentieth century's most revered pianists, including Vladimir Horowitz and Sergei Rachmaninoff. Lin performed virtuosic arrangements of opera and American Songbook melodies including Liszt's "Concert paraphrase on Verdi's"; Rodgers and Hart's "Blue Moon" arranged by Andre Previn; Gershwin's "Embraceable You"; and "I've Got Rhythm" arranged by Earl Wild.
"What an instrument, what a venue, what a night," Lin said. "It's been an honor to be a part of this unveiling, and I am delighted to have an opportunity to play this gorgeous piano. The energy is electric."
The Arabesque unveiling was one of the last large-scale events that will take place in Steinway Hall at its historic beaux arts 57th Street location. The current Steinway Hall will be closing and relocating to another building in Manhattan by early 2015.
"The Arabesque was conceived by Dakota to commemorate our 160th Anniversary," said Ron Losby, President, Steinway & Sons – Americas. "It was very fitting for the piano to be unveiled in Steinway Hall, especially as we prepare for the next chapter in the Hall's illustrious history. This event showcased the latest achievement of a great partnership between Steinway and Dakota Jackson."
About Steinway & Sons
Since 1853 Steinway pianos have set an uncompromising standard for sound, touch, beauty and investment value. Steinway remains the choice of 9 out of 10 concert artists, and it is the preferred piano of countless musicians, professional and amateur, throughout the world. For more information, visit www.steinway.com.
Photos accompanying this release are available at:
