JHS Announces Restoration of Century-Old Piano

JEFFERSON – The Jefferson Historical Society is pleased to announce the restoration of a remarkable piece of local history. Recently, a group of community members examined an aged, weathered instrument that served as a reminder of a time before radio and television—an era when churches and early “opera houses” were central gathering places for entertainment. Among the echoes of those bygone days were the lively sounds of the piano and the spirited rhythms of Ragtime.

That spirit lives again with the restoration of a 1918 Bush & Lane Pompeian Parlor Grand upright piano in Judd Hall. Skilled restorer Brian Hubbell of Cooperstown has completed extensive work on the instrument, including a full disassembly for restringing and the replacement of hammers, tuning pins, damper felts, let-off buttons, and other components. His meticulous craftsmanship has returned the interior to a condition remarkably close to when it first left the factory more than a century ago. The restoration was generously funded by Don Keil and Nick Juried. The piano is now ready to be reintroduced to the public.

Our inaugural concert will feature local native Susan Harwood, who will present a program of holiday music performed as a festive community sing-along. Susan, a Stamford native, has been a singer for most of her life and holds Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Voice Performance. She has performed at the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, and numerous venues across the country, and has taught Voice at the College of Saint Rose and other institutions.

The event will take place in Judd Hall, 163 Main Street, Jefferson, on Saturday, December 20 at 3:00 p.m. It is free and open to all.