[Horowitz, Vladimir. (1903–1989) & Steinway, John H. (1917?–1989)] White House Invitation to Steinway for Horowitz's Golden Jubilee

[Horowitz, Vladimir. (1903–1989) & Steinway, John H. (1917?–1989)]

White House Invitation to Steinway for Horowitz's Golden Jubilee

An original engraved invitation from President and First Lady Carter bearing the gold embossed Presidential Seal inviting John H. Steinway, chairman of Steinway & Sons piano makers, to a White House concert held February 26, 1978 in honor of the great pianist Vladimir Horowitz's golden jubilee. Included is the gilt-edge concert program, listing all the pieces performed by Horowitz. Accompanied by an invitation for dinner at the White House on April 1, 1969 from President and First Lady Nixon, with the original envelope and a small card noting that the dress is “white tie.” 7pp. 8vo and 12mo.

Steinway pianos have been in the White House since the administration of Andrew Johnson. But only two presidents have been committed pianists – Truman and Nixon, the latter even accompanying Pearl Bailey at the White House in 1974. However, he made a faux pas when he gave the Harry S. Truman Library the Steinway piano lent to the White House by the Steinway Piano Company in 1937, unaware that it was merely on loan. Steinway graciously extended the loan to the presidential library. Nixon himself preferred to play a Geo. P. Bent Upright and a Baldwin Vertical. (15816)

Program, unsigned Classical Music