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Conservatory Home

 

Conservatory Concert Dedicates New Steinway Piano,
a Gift of the Family of William J. Hannan, Jr.,'64

 



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William J. Hannan, Jr. '64

The Hamburg Steinway in Warner Concert Hall is a gift of W. Jay and Yrsa E. Hannan of East Moline, Illinois. It is given to Oberlin College in memory of their son, William J. Hannan, Jr. (Bill), who graduated from Oberlin in 1964. Their gift commemorates the love that Bill had for Oberlin throughout his life. For many years, Bill served as 1964 alumni class president and spent a great deal of time fundraising; his letters soliciting donations from his fellow alumni were known for their wit and charm. He was also an active member of the Alumni Council. All of his life, Bill remained elated with news of Oberlin -- the accomplishments of its graduates, the performances from its Conservatory -- and cherished the friends he made there.

It was Bill's wish, when he died in September 2001, that his estate provide the means for Oberlin to receive a truly superb piano. Bill, who for years played a Steinway grand piano, specified that the piano be a Hamburg Steinway. His parents have honored his wish, celebrating Bill's life and his regard for Oberlin with their gift.

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