The Third International Stretto Piano Festival Presents NYC Performances and Online Concerts

New York, NY (June 2023) — Stretto Piano Concerts will host its annual International Stretto Piano Festival, from July 15 - 23, 2023, at Baruch Performing Arts Center’s Engelman Recital Hall in New York City and via free online performances from stages, universities, and studios around the globe! The festival celebrates the Stretto piano, which has narrower than conventional keys and makes piano playing more equitable, comfortable, and easy for all hand sizes.

In-person concerts in New York City will be ticketed events from July 18-22, and will feature distinguished artists such as Christopher O’Riley, Roger Lord, Ran Feng, Steve Sangberg, Luiz Simas, Paul Sheftel, Anna Arazi, and internationally renowned composer, David Amram. Programs will include solo piano works, chamber groups, and various genres, from Bach to Joni Mitchell — plus a Music Lover’s Concert for our community of pianists wanting to try the piano. The full line-up of artists — from North and South America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore — and program information can be found below, and here.

Since the standardization of the piano in the mid-to-late 19th century, pianists with smaller hands — predominantly women — have found this conventional size challenging to play, and have even experienced playing-related injuries. Today, artists have realized that one size does not fit all and are using the narrow key to reach their true musical potential. This unique festival shines a light on this growing, international community of artists who play and/or own Stretto pianos.