PianoForte Chicago
Originally an outlet for the Fazioli line of pianos, PianoForte Chicago has become a key player and presenter in Chicago’s classical and jazz scenes. Launched by Swiss-born banker-impresario Thomas Zoells in 2004, PianoForte offers new and used instruments online and at its Gold Coast showroom. PianoForte also houses recording facilities and offers a range of musical programming at its South Loop complex, including live broadcasts on WFMT and WDCB. In addition to producing dozens of recitals a year, the boutique sponsors an annual “Schubertiade” festival in late January, honoring the composer’s life and work and featuring a wide sampling of his lieder, chamber music and, of course, keyboard compositions. The operation’s nonprofit arm, the PianoForte Foundation, runs a piano donation program providing restored instruments, largely to Chicago Public Schools. It’s an island of personal music-making in a sea of recorded sound. (Hugh Iglarsh)
900 N. Michigan and 1335 S. Michigan, 312.291.0000, pianofortechicago.com
Best of Chicago 2018
