“Most of my solo concertizing features work by living composers. This is a responsibility I take extremely seriously. If music, especially the piano repertoire, is to grow and expand in the coming decades then it must have proponents who can translate its myriad challenges to the audience in a passionate, colorful and articulate manner. To do this I simply must have a great instrument. The composer deserves it. When I walk into a concert hall and see a Steinway on stage I relax. I know that the possibility for great music making is present. It is only up to me to realize it - the instrument, the vehicle for making it all happen is there. The touch, the color palette, the dynamic range and the familiarity of the Steinway all inspire me and help me to be a worthy channel for the music at hand. It always has been and always will be my first choice.”

Vicki Ray