Godparent Brad Mehldau

The American pianist Brad Mehldau has been an integral part of international jazz stages since the mid-nineties. His trio with Larry Grenadier on bass and Jorge Rossy – later Jeff Ballard – on drums gained worldwide attention and finally played in the Elbphilharmonie in May 2018. This master of improvisation is also interested in classical repertoire, as can be seen in his current project “Three Pieces After Bach”.

On 13 October 2018 he received a very special honour: As godparent of the grand piano no. 1, he unveiled his own piano at Steinway & Sons’ presentation of its Elbphilharmonie Limited Edition, enchanting guests at the Elbphilharmonie’s Recital Hall with his performance. For him, it was a very special experience to be able to play a part in this evening. Brad Mehldau is sure of one thing: “I’ll remember it for a very long time.”

The Elbphilharmonie grand piano is a true fantasy piano, whose warm and open tone sang out from the very first moment he played it. “The piano sings back,” says the jazz pianist of the outstanding quality of the Steinway grand piano, “it inspires your performance.”

The experienced pianist knows that it is also extremely valuable to observe the instrument in unity with its surroundings, and he praises the excellent cooperation between the Elbphilharmonie and Steinway & Sons.