Nineteenth Century Charitable Association Presents “Raining Pianos” Program

The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association is known for sharing its building with the community. This year it has extended this mission to extend the use of its important asset, the Steinway pianos with some of our talented community members. This past summer our newest program, entitled “Raining Pianos” was held at 1pm on the fourth Monday during the months of June thru September. It featured five accomplished pianists from surrounding communities who sprinkled us with music from the nineteenth century. Each pianist performed on our lovingly restored Steinway piano.

Our series began with Heather Peterson from Oak Park, who after her beautiful performance explained how her chosen pieces related to her life.  The talented Cacie Miller, who performed in July, said her music has helped her navigate the world around her. In August, brothers Brian Ling(a sixth grader), and Owen Ling (a high schooler)shared the spotlight. Both brothers have competed in international competitions and performed at London’s Royal Albert Hall and New York’s Carnegie Hall. Each brother has also received first place awards in performance. Our summer series ended with a member of the Nineteenth Century Charitable Association, Doug Cotsamire. He has taken piano lessons since second grade, and has been studying classical piano in Oak Park for eleven years. Recently retired from his rheumatology practice Doug amazed us by performing some of his favorite piano pieces.