One of the most legendary hotels not just in New York City but in the world, the Waldorf Astoria New York is currently undergoing a top-to-bottom renovation that will bring a whole new level of luxury to both the hotel and the residential towers. Over its long and illustrious history, the Waldorf Astoria has hosted U.S. presidents, visiting royalty, movie stars, and musicians, including Cole Porter, a longterm resident of the Towers.
On May 12th at 5 p.m., Untapped New York Insiders are invited to get a tour of the Waldorf Astoria New York and get a close look at Cole Porter’s piano. The tour will be led by Dan Tubb, Senior Director of Sales for the Waldorf Astoria New York. Participants will visit the Waldorf Astoria New York’s sales gallery and learn about the restoration, view artifacts of the historic hotel, including the Spirit of Achievement and Cole Porter’s Steinway Piano, see a model of the hotel, and visit the model residence and see the building amenities. This event is free for Untapped New York Insiders. If you’re not a member, become one now (and use the code JOINUS to get your first month free).
The largest suite in the Towers belonged to Cole Porter, who lived there from 1934 until his death in 1964. The 4,300 square foot Suite #33A consisted of 5 bedrooms and 5 1/2 baths. Porter had two baby grand pianos inside along with his two cats named “Anything” and “Goes.”
Cole Porter’s piano, which was given as a gift to the artist by the hotel, was built in 1907. It was located in Suite #33A and it was on this piano that he wrote most of his music. The piano has detailed hand-carvings and double Empire-style legs. Cole Porter lovingly called the Steinway piano “High Society,” and among the classics he is believed to have composed on this piano are “Anything Goes,” “I Get a Kick Out of You,” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” In “You’re the Top,” he croons, “You’re the top, you’re a Waldorf salad.”
Courtesy of the Waldorf Astoria New York
After Porter’s death in 1964, Frank Sinatra and his wife Barbara took over the lease and lived there until 1988. The piano was located in the Peacock Alley Lounge, just off the main lobby. The piano underwent restoration at the Steinway & Sons factory in Astoria and then spent some time at the New-York Historical Society, where guests enjoyed performances of Cole Porter classics by renowned pianists. It is currently back at the Waldorf Astoria New York in the sales gallery for the new residences. When renovations are complete, it will return to the hotel’s central lobby.
Courtesy of the Waldorf Astoria New YorkCourtesy of the Waldorf Astoria New YorkCourtesy of the Waldorf Astoria New YorkCourtesy of the Waldorf Astoria New YorkCourtesy of the Waldorf Astoria New York
