Gresham's is now an All Steinway School

Published on isbi School News dated Wednesday 28th of November 2012

Gresham's in North Norfolk is delighted to announce that it became an All Steinway School on 27th November. 21 pianos, 8 of which were grand pianos from the Steinway family were delivered with seamless precision into Big School for the opening ceremony to mark their arrival at Gresham's. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of The Gresham's Foundation, the School can be counted amongst one of a prestigious group of schools to receive the All Steinway status. Gresham's has now become the first school in the East of England, one of only six independent schools in the UK and the first Prep School in the country to receive this accolade.

To mark the occasion, parents, staff, and representatives from The Gresham's Foundation, School Governors and Old Greshamian Club gathered together for the opening launch. Mr Mark Jones, Gresham's Music Director christened the Concert Grand D piano by playing a beautiful piece by Chopin Ballade in G minor.

With speeches from The Foundation Director, Mr John Lintott and The Headmaster, Mr Philip John, a formal blessing of the pianos also took place by the School Chaplain, Fr Bryan. A formal cutting of the ribbon then followed by representatives of all three schools on the Concert Grand D piano. What a sight for all the guests to witness 20 world-class Steinway pianos on display in Big School (1 had additionally been installed in the Auden Theatre).

Musicians from the Pre-Prep, Prep and Senior Schools then took their places at the pianos led by School Organist, Lawrence Tao to perform In C by Terry Riley in unison. The pupils who performed ranged in ages from 4 to 18 and it was a magnificent sight to see all 20 pianos being played together.

The final performance was then given by the Jefford brothers Charlie (F), Jimmy (F) and George (F) who brought the occasion to an end playing In the Hall of the Mountain King by Edvard Grieg. Guests were then led by Head Boy, Max Hunter (T) and Head Girl, Sophia Haywood (E), to the Auden Theatre Foyer for a drinks reception. Parents remarked on what a 'wonderful event' the launch had been and how 'privileged' they felt to have witnessed this truly remarkable sight in Big School.