In the world of music, Steinway & Sons boasts a 140-year history of handcrafting pianos and garnering musicians’ stamp of approval around the globe, making it synonymous with instrumental excellence. Kent State University’s Hugh A. Glauser School of Music graces its stages with just that, says school director Dr. Josef Knott.

In February 2007, the School of Music embarked on a “Keys to Musical Excellence” campaign, working toward membership in the prestigious Steinway family as an All-Steinway designated school, one of only 55 such universities worldwide, including the United States, China and Asia. Conservatories and universities already enjoying the All-Steinway seal include The Julliard School, the Oberlin College Conservatory and Lake Michigan College. The goal of purchasing 66 Steinway & Sons pianos, 22 of which are already at home in the Music and Speech Building, is made possible thanks to gifts from Kent State’s Provost’s Office, the Kent State University Foundation and Mel Mellis, ’68, president of the foundation.

“For people studying music, there are perhaps two icons or thresholds universally: Carnegie Hall and Steinway pianos,” says Knott. “Even if you stop someone on the street and say ‘Carnegie Hall,’ it has world recognition. The same thing could be said about the Steinway name, particularly in this country.”

Obtaining the designation is critical to attracting and keeping students, as well as faculty, Knott says. “Faculty or students looking at the school will see the Steinway stamp and notice that we have a commitment to excellence,” says Knott. “Not only did we make the commitment, but we made the investment in musical excellence and study. We want to create an environment, for students and faculty, current and prospective, that is inspirational. You walk in and are inspired. It elevates the person and the school to a different level.”

 For more information about the school’s All-Steinway campaign, contact Dr. Josef Knott at 330-672-2172 or jknott1@kent.edu.

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Media contact: Rachel Wenger-Pelosi, 330-672-8046 or rwenger@kent.edu.