New piano plays to black & white celebration

The Sarasota Orchestra held the Black & White Gala Concert and Dinner on Jan. 31.

  • By Kayleigh Omang
  • | 11:05 a.m. February 2, 2018
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Like the tune of the black and white keys on the newest piano, the Black & White Gala was just as grand. 

The Sarasota Orchestra held their Black & White Gala Concert and Dinner on Jan. 31 at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium in celebration of their new Steinway Grand Piano. 

The addition of the piano is thanks to the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation and an anonymous donor. The previous, well-loved and played grand piano was over 30 years old. After extensive rebuilds, the piano had reached its last days. 

The new piano was selected by pianist and Music Director of the Sarasota Music Festival, Jeffrey Kahane, and Sarasota Orchestra Principal Keyboard Jonathan Spivey. 

Jennifer Takeda and Besty Traba
Jennifer Takeda and Besty Traba
Napkins placed were placed on each place-setting to transform the tables into a piano keyboard.
Napkins placed were placed on each place-setting to transform the tables into a piano keyboard.
The centerpieces varied between tall vases and short roses.
The centerpieces varied between tall vases and short roses.
The room was lit up with blue lights and the ceiling was striped black and white.
The room was lit up with blue lights and the ceiling was striped black and white.
The Black & White Gala was hosted in honor of the new grand piano.
The Black & White Gala was hosted in honor of the new grand piano.
Barbara Cruikshank and Carolynne Smith
Barbara Cruikshank and Carolynne Smith
Brent Greeno and Claudia Cardillo
Brent Greeno and Claudia Cardillo
Pamela and David Steves
Pamela and David Steves
Gina Taylor and Clara Ramos
Gina Taylor and Clara Ramos
Donald Chusid and Mickie Fine
Donald Chusid and Mickie Fine
Co-Chairs Sherry and Tom Koski, Renee Hamad and with Beverly and Bob Bartner
Co-Chairs Sherry and Tom Koski, Renee Hamad and with Beverly and Bob Bartner
Ayano Guiles and Elyse Lauzon, brass players
Ayano Guiles and Elyse Lauzon, brass players
Larry Milas, Gail Goldrath with Cathy and Kip Becker
Larry Milas, Gail Goldrath with Cathy and Kip Becker
President and CEO of the Sarasota Orchestra, Joseph McKenna gives his opening remarks before dinner is served.
President and CEO of the Sarasota Orchestra, Joseph McKenna gives his opening remarks before dinner is served.

 

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