C. Bechstein placing Manchester centre stage with the launch of it's new flagship store
World-renowned piano manufacturer, C. Bechstein brought together some of the North West’s best musical minds for the grand launch of its flagship centre in Manchester’s Northern Quarter on Thursday 19th May 2022.
The evening began with welcome speeches from Stuart Kernaghan, managing director at the centre, and Stefan Freymuth, CEO at C. Bechstein Pianoforte AG.
Guests were able to peruse the stunning collection of pianos on display in the impressive building before enjoying a mesmerising piano recital of Scriabin's 7th Sonata Op. 64 and Preludes from Op. 11 (1, 4 & 5) by Cheltenham School of Music alumnus and award-winning classical pianist Matthew McLachlan.
Matthew was awarded the C. Bechstein scholarship for the Royal College of Music in London, where he now studies with Dina Parakhina.
The Unveiling of the Stephen Hough Mural by STEWY
Possibly the most anticipated event of the evening was the unveiling of a large mural by Manchester-born artist Stewy. The mural was unveiled by British-born classical pianist, composer and writer Stephen Hough, CBE. It features the critically acclaimed and world-renowned musician playing a C. Bechstein model D Concert Grand Piano.
Stuart Kernaghan said about the evening: “We were delighted to see the new centre full with people as equally as excited about its launch as we are.
“Manchester is a city with a rich musical history, so it is the perfect location to open the new store, the first of its kind for over 100 years.
“I’d like to thank Stephen Hough, Stewy and Matthew MacLachlan for their contributions in making the evening possible, as well as the hardworking C. Bechstein centre staff and guests.”
Housed in a magnificent 9,000 sq ft showroom which is part of the Transmission House development, the C. Bechstein Centre Manchester is the first purpose-built multi-use centre to be launched in the UK since Bechstein Hall, now known as the prestigious Wigmore Hall, which opened in 1901.
The centre comprises a state-of-the-art showroom, housing a range of world-class C. Bechstein, W. Hoffmann and Zimmerman pianos to suit a range of spaces and budgets.
Alongside the showroom, the centre also boasts six sound-insulated practice studios and an intimate recital space, allowing pianists across the north of England dedicated space to learn, practice and showcase their proficiency.
C. Bechstein are excited about the launch of their new Flagship Store in the North and look forward to welcoming you to experience their beautiful pianos in their luxurious new showroom.
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