Saint Mary’s University earns All-Steinway distinction

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University has received the distinction of being named an All-Steinway School. The honor demonstrates Saint Mary’s commitment to excellence by providing students and faculty with the best possible instruments for both study and performance.

In order to be eligible for the All-Steinway School distinction, Saint Mary’s made the commitment to offer to its students only instruments designed and built by Steinway & Sons.

“The name Steinway brings a level of integrity and validity that is instant,” said Ned Kirk, chairman of the SMU Department of Music. “It means that Saint Mary’s is truly dedicated to providing the best for our students.”

Steinway is a name traditionally associated with excellence in piano craftsmanship. Steinway pianos are known for their longevity, and most Steinway instruments appreciate in value over time. Each piano is handcrafted, which can take up to one full year per instrument.

The inspiration to become a Steinway school came from long-time friends of the university, Bob Kierlin and Mary Burrichter. The Winona couple donated a newly restored 1931 Steinway piano to the Minnesota Beethoven Festival. The concert piano, worth more than $100,000, was carefully restored 18 months ago. Saint Mary’s University has the additional honor of using the piano throughout the school year as its concert instrument.

Only 60 colleges and universities in the United States have been designated All-Steinway Schools, including six in Minnesota: Gustavus Adolphus; University of Minnesota, Morris; University of Minnesota, Twin Cities; Bemidji State University; and Concordia University, St. Paul.

For more information about the Saint Mary’s music department programs and activities, go to www.smumn.edu/music.