On View
Musical Crossroads Gallery
Exhibition
Musical Crossroads
Manufactured by
Steinway & Sons, American, founded 1853
Used by
Thom Bell, Jamaican American, born 1943
Subject of
Philadelphia International Records, American, 1971 - 2001
Date
ca. 1900
Medium
wood with metal, cabled yarn and paint
Dimensions
H x W x D: 52 3/16 × 62 1/16 × 27 1/2 in. (132.6 × 157.6 × 69.9 cm)
Description
An aqua blue painted upright piano used by producer and arranger Thom Bell in his office at Philadelphia International Records. The lid of the piano is hinged and can open to reveal the frame, hammer rail and hammers. At the top of the frame in the upper left corner on raised text with black paint is “STEINWAY & SONS NEW YORK HAMBURG.” On the frame back near the manufacturer’s name is the serial number in black text “96711.” (year: 1900) The top front panel of the piano is cut out with rectangle and is ridged with scalloped edges. Stylized curved upper front side board are on either side of the front. The piano has a fall board that opens to reveal the keyboard. The keyboard is caped on either side with side arms. Attached to the bottom right of the keyboard is a drawer slide on a vinyl covered wood arm. The front legs of the piano feature curved and ribbed detailing. The piano rests on four caster wheels. The bottom front panel can be opened. The back of piano features a metal screen on the top and bottom halves.
Place used
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, North and Central America
Classification
Musical Instruments
Type
upright pianos
Topic
Business
Composers (Musicians)
Popular music
Rhythm and blues (Music)
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Legendary producer Thom Bell
Object number
2015.203
Restrictions & Rights
No Known Copyright Restrictions
Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5a58b8b4e-5631-4c0f-bbd3-7a6bcd2d371a

Cataloging is an ongoing process and we may update this record as we conduct additional research and review. If you have more information about this object, please contact us at NMAAHCDigiTeam@si.edu

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