Musical instruments are not always the first thing that comes to mind when you think of architecture, but they are often embedded into landmark buildings. This month, several other unique instruments are featured on display within museum exhibits. Here, we have curated a list of musical instruments you may have overlooked in your daily walk, or should check out on your next exploration.
1. Cole Porter’s Piano at the Waldorf Astoria
Cole Porter’s mahogany baby grand piano, now sitting in the Peacock Alley Lounge
The largest suite in The Towers of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel belonged to Cole Porter, who lived there from 1934 until his death in 1964. The 4,300 square foot Suite #33A consists of 5 bedrooms and 5 1/2 baths. Porter had two baby grand pianos inside along with his two cats named “Anything” and “Goes.”
The piano he bequeathed to the Waldorf was built in 1907 and was purchased by Porter from the Steinway family. It was here in Suite #33A and on this piano that he wrote most of his music. After Porter’s death in 1964, Frank Sinatra and his wife Barbara took over the lease and lived there until 1988. The piano was bequeathed to the Waldorf Astoria and is currently in the Peacock Alley Lounge, just off the main lobby.