Featuring a Petrof 7’ Grand piano, (Model P210), Jazz Orchestra Atlanta performed recently in a Fundraising Benefit Concert. Billed as a “Taste of Jazz”, the performance was a bouquet to the senses. The Orchestra ensemble, guest jazz pianist/composer Ted Howe, song stylist Jamila Ajibade (formerly with the Fifth Dimension) and chef Gary Dusterhoff created a sophisticated evening for appreciative attendees. The concert venue was a “sky rise” auditorium overlooking nighttime Atlanta provided by Alston and Byrd, LLC. Surrounded by luscious sounds and accompanied by exquisite cuisine and décor, the capacity audience enthusiastically responded.
The Petrof grand, provided courtesy of Cooper Piano (Blake Cooper) and sponsored through Petrof USA (Al Rich), functioned alternately as integral to the orchestral sound and as featured solo voice. With a full resonance, the round sound produced by the handcrafted Czech instrument responded beautifully to the jazz stylings of Dr. Brent Runnels, conductor, and Ted Howe, featured guest pianist.
“This piano responds to every demand I make of it,” said Ted Howe, “and I especially appreciate its ability to communicate what I am trying to say through the jazz genre. It takes a special instrument to do that. That’s why I have a Petrof in my home in Los Angeles.” 21st century Petrof pianos, built by the 150 year old Petrof company in the Czech Republic, feature the fundamental artistry of the instrument augmented by Petrof’s many years of respectful development. Present day CEO, Zuzanna Petrof , is the greatgranddaughter of founder Anton Petrof.