From its black and white keys to the shiny coating encasing it, a piano is truly a work of art in itself. We have been blessed at Brandon Oaks to have been gifted a piano many years ago, however, due to age and frequent use, it didn’t play the same as it once had.
One resident, Deanne Vance, an accomplished pianist, took notice after presenting at “Professionally Speaking” (a monthly resident-led speaker series) where she played pieces that meant something to her through various points in her life. While the reception of it was wonderful, the existing piano didn’t cut it. “I realized the need for more musical performances was great, but, the existing piano wouldn’t be sufficient for quality performances, it was in very bad shape,” Deanne explained.
Soon after, Deanne spoke with her husband Sam about the possibility of helping fund a new piano for the community. In partnership with Director of Development, Julee Goodman and fellow resident, Janet Johnson, the “Friends of the Piano” was born. Between the Vance’s starter donation of $25,000, and an anonymous donation of $25,000, they were already half way to their $100,000 goal.
Over the course of a few months that included many one-on-one presentations, wine and cheese receptions and phone calls they raised the full $100,000 within 7 months!
Now the question was, what kind of piano should we get? The answer was clear for Deanne: a Steinway. Steinways are the Rolls Royce of the piano world. Hand crafted in Germany, they are composed of up to 12,000 individual parts and can take up to a full year to assemble. We found this amazing video that describes the process it takes to create these musical artforms.
Luckily, a Steinway showroom was close by in Greensboro, N.C. and Deanne paid a visit. “Each Steinway piano is unique and has a soul all its own, among the ones we saw, heard and played, we found the perfect one,” Deanne exclaimed. The gorgeous Steinway Model B Classic Grand Piano is now home at Brandon Oaks.
Along with the enjoyment among residents, the development of a public music series is underway. More information on this musical series will be out soon.
Brandon Oaks is home to not only this beautiful new piano, but residents with a drive to make positive changes in the community for themselves and future residents as well. We are grateful for the many diverse talents our residents bring to Brandon Oaks.
