There is a full-size concert grand piano at Toronto’s Estonian House that was procured by the Estonian Arts Council several years ago. Unfortunately, its playing days are over. Apparently its soundboard has developed wide cracks that cannot be effectively repaired. As a result it is very difficult to keep it in tune. This has been substantiated by two piano repair companies, according to whom it would cost more than $30,000 to recondition the instrument.
The Toronto Estonian House campaign to acquire an Estonia concert grand piano is well under way. Marlene Kuutan and Riina Klaas made recent acquaintance with one model, Indrek Laul answered all questions.
The manager of Estonian House Ülo Isberg assembled a panel of experts consisting of well-known local Estonian pianists and members of the board of directors to delve into the problem. The members of the panel are Asta Ballstadt, Charles Kipper, Armas Maiste, Marlene Kuutan and Riina Klaas. After contacting two of the better-known piano dealers they came up with a consensus opinion that, all things considered, purchasing a new quality instrument is the preferred solution. This was proposed at the last Annual Meeting of the shareholders, where it received a favorable response.
As it happens, the well known Estonian pianist dr. Indrek Laul lives in New York and in addition to his musical endeavours is also the owner and the sales representative in North America of the Estonia Piano Company in Tallinn, Estonia. His father, Venno Laul of the Estonian Boys Choir fame, manages the manufacturing operations for Indrek.
With the independence of Estonia came a ready access to superior materials, especially the mechanical parts from Germany, so that their product can be compared to world leaders, such as Steinway and Bösendorfer.
Considering the quality of the concerts given at the Estonian House, a full size nine foot “Estonia” concert grand is the final choice. Our most popular cultural home, The Estonian House in Toronto, deserves nothing less. We are certain that the Estonian community will lend their support by donating generously toward the purchase of a worthy instrument. This newspaper will keep you informed of all future developments.
