Our New Haven Showroom

Even before I found 963, I envisioned a place that not only has great vintage pianos, but also has a warm, inviting, alive, contemporary feel to it. I did not want it to be a stuffy, forbidding "store" or to clutter the walls with old sheet music or jam the floor with mediocre pianos. That’s been done.

Since just moving in here in May ’06, I have had the distinct honor of hosting The Wall Street Chamber Players. Witnessing music of that caliber in this intimate setting was a remarkable experience. The music and the musicianship were breathtaking. Having an audience of New Havens most dedicated supporters of the arts was better than I ever imagined.

Although, fitting refreshments, 50 people, 50 chairs, 8 pianos including a Steinway concert grand into this modest space, was no easy task. A few toes were stepped on and one subscriber nearly had her eye poked out by the violists bow. We stored one of the grand pianos for the second night of performance which made things much more comfortable. It worked.

I offer my sincerest thanks to the first group, who so graciously tolerated the cramped quarters. With all its flaws, for me, it was a "pinch-me-I-must-be- dreaming" moment.

With the support of my family, friends and neighbors, I know we are on to something good. I am so fortunate to have found a place at 963 in the great Upper State St. neighborhood, with about as many varied elements as you can imagine, (fine restaurants, cafes, an on-line hip-hop radio station, tattoo parlor an art gallery, classic cigar shop, tequila bar, to name just a few) and surrounded on all sides by an inordinate number of gifted musicians joined by a community of people who actively celebrate and ardently support the arts at all levels.

On a day-to-day basis, the thrill of being here is having friends, neighbors and people I don’t know, stop in, play the pianos, look at the artwork and seem to really enjoy being here.

It has become immediately clear to me that this space is here to serve the people in New Haven and beyond, artists and art lovers alike. Upper State is a community within a community that sets a great example of inclusion and tolerance. We hold in our hands unlimited resources and untold potential.

I look forward to having more music in here that will include something for everyone in the neighborhood. It is a real pleasure to be here.

More information about the events being held here will be coming soon, so check back later for updates as we post them on our News page.

We are open Tuesdays 2pm - 6pm or by appointment.
Call (203) 785-8780.