With the delivery of a 7-foot Steinway & Sons concert grand piano in Riely Theatre, Shipley is thrilled to announce its intention of becoming an “All-Steinway” school. The “All-Steinway” designation represents a recognized commitment to arts excellence, by providing students, faculty, and visiting artists with legendary instruments that are the benchmark of quality world-wide. The Shipley School’s intention to achieve this elite musical status is an extraordinary step for a kindergarten-through-high school program.

Head of School Steve Piltch explained the school’s motivation: “We are a school that is committed to excellence and preparation, with the understanding that success is achieved before it’s acclaimed. With that as our belief, I can’t imagine a better partnership than with Steinway & Sons and Jacobs Music Company.” Michael Smith, Director of Performing Arts, continued, “I am thrilled for the students at Shipley that we have made the investment in this musical resource – the first of many Steinway & Sons pianos we will purchase. Providing Steinway pianos to the students allows us to teach, and our students to learn, at a higher level. Since the curriculum in music is all about the process and the preparation, it is wonderful that we can continue to challenge our students in their quest for excellence by playing on the highest caliber piano – the Steinway.”

The pianos, designed and built in the United States by Steinway & Sons, are the instruments of choice for serious musicians worldwide. Only a select group of institutions around the world achieves the exclusive “All-Steinway” designation and it is extremely rare for a PreK-12 school.

“The Shipley School is a legendary model of excellence,” said Mark Love, Senior Vice President of Institutional Sales and Development for Jacobs Music Company. “By providing its music faculty and students with instruments that set the standard for the world’s most demanding performers, Shipley brings excitement to its music programs. Jacobs is so proud to be able to participate in Shipley’s transition to ‘All-Steinway’ status.”

For a list of other elite institutions which have gained the “All-Steinway” status, visit www.steinway.com/institutions/all-steinway-schools.