SSWPA presents:
Our 2025-2026 Recital Series
The Ballade of Piano and Chess
By Evan Park, SSWPA Young Artist
As a chess player and pianist, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to interview Brian Woods, well-known classical pianist and Director of Classical Music Programming
at the World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF), who recently performed his program “Wanderings” for the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania (SSWPA) Recital Series. I would like to thank the SSWPA for making this interview possible.
The black and white chess pieces merge with the black and white keys of the piano, orchestras, and music in pianist Brian Woods’ world. An accomplished pianist who performs internationally and has placed highly at several distinguished competitions, Woods is also the Director of Classical Music Programming at the World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF). At first glance, it may seem odd that a pianist, who avowedly does not play chess, would end up as the director of a primarily chess-focused museum. For Woods, however, taking this position was a natural move.
When Woods was young, he performed on stage as part of his theater hobby and realized early on that this background enhanced his communication skills. Therefore, when a job position for the Director of Classical Music Programming opened up at the WCHOF, he was an ideal choice. The museum’s administration realized that these communication skills made him uniquely qualified to showcase the connection between the two similar yet distinct art forms of chess and classical music. He landed the job.
But still, why would the WCHOF have a complete classical music program when chess is clearly its primary focus? The answer lies in the vision of its main benefactor, Rex Sinquefield. Sinquefield is not only a lover of intense chess tournaments and games, but also the turning pages and flowing sounds of classical music. In fact,
Sinquefield is not alone in the chess world for his love of classical music. Many of the world's top grandmasters, including Grandmaster Levon Aronian, who especially loves Shostakovich, are keen listeners as well.
Chess and music are also intertwined deeply in at least one surprising way. When Woods heard chess Grandmaster Yasser Seirawan state that a player’s move was “Romantic,” it clicked that styles of classical music had their counterparts in chess. Similar to the charged human-emotion based music of the Romantic Era, Romanticism in chess involves the high drama of pursuing the beauty of sacrifices and fast attacks. Woods’ recent performance of his program Wanderings at the WCHOF, which includes all four Chopin Ballades, is the epitome of this strong connection.
Woods has also noted several other similarities between the two art forms in his time entangled in both worlds. First, chess, like music, requires strong dedication and passion to achieve excellence and mastery, something that greatly impresses Woods every time he observes super-tournaments, such as the Sinquefield Cup, at the St. Louis Chess Club.
Moreover, both chess and music have constraints and restrictions. Just as piano pieces are limited by the 88 keys and ten fingers, chess games, too, are limited by the rules governing the 32 pieces’ movements on an 8 X 8 board. However, in both cases, the possibilities are virtually infinite. Within set boundaries, there is limitless room for creativity.
In other words, Woods’ work as the Director of Classical Music Programming at the World Chess Hall of Fame is a perfect match. In his work, Brian creates unique connections between Chess and Music, such as designing an exhibit highlighting a duel
between violinist David Oistrakh and composer and pianist Sergei Prokofiev, which transpired over the chess board. Organizing and performing music publicized by Oistrakh and compositions of the ever-eccentric Prokofiev, he connects the tense chess match’s world with one of bright violin and grand piano music.
Some of the WCHOF Classical Programming exhibits create connections even more direct and striking. A chess board that plays music with each move of a chess game, for example, converts the physical game into a classical composition.
Woods’ work links the wooden pieces and running clocks of the chess world to the sonorous music world. While piano and chess may be very different in form and concept, their shared philosophy of objectivity meshing with creativity makes them a perfect if unexpected pair, and Woods is the perfect musician to tie them together.
at the World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF), who recently performed his program “Wanderings” for the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania (SSWPA) Recital Series. I would like to thank the SSWPA for making this interview possible.
The black and white chess pieces merge with the black and white keys of the piano, orchestras, and music in pianist Brian Woods’ world. An accomplished pianist who performs internationally and has placed highly at several distinguished competitions, Woods is also the Director of Classical Music Programming at the World Chess Hall of Fame (WCHOF). At first glance, it may seem odd that a pianist, who avowedly does not play chess, would end up as the director of a primarily chess-focused museum. For Woods, however, taking this position was a natural move.
When Woods was young, he performed on stage as part of his theater hobby and realized early on that this background enhanced his communication skills. Therefore, when a job position for the Director of Classical Music Programming opened up at the WCHOF, he was an ideal choice. The museum’s administration realized that these communication skills made him uniquely qualified to showcase the connection between the two similar yet distinct art forms of chess and classical music. He landed the job.
But still, why would the WCHOF have a complete classical music program when chess is clearly its primary focus? The answer lies in the vision of its main benefactor, Rex Sinquefield. Sinquefield is not only a lover of intense chess tournaments and games, but also the turning pages and flowing sounds of classical music. In fact,
Sinquefield is not alone in the chess world for his love of classical music. Many of the world's top grandmasters, including Grandmaster Levon Aronian, who especially loves Shostakovich, are keen listeners as well.
Chess and music are also intertwined deeply in at least one surprising way. When Woods heard chess Grandmaster Yasser Seirawan state that a player’s move was “Romantic,” it clicked that styles of classical music had their counterparts in chess. Similar to the charged human-emotion based music of the Romantic Era, Romanticism in chess involves the high drama of pursuing the beauty of sacrifices and fast attacks. Woods’ recent performance of his program Wanderings at the WCHOF, which includes all four Chopin Ballades, is the epitome of this strong connection.
Woods has also noted several other similarities between the two art forms in his time entangled in both worlds. First, chess, like music, requires strong dedication and passion to achieve excellence and mastery, something that greatly impresses Woods every time he observes super-tournaments, such as the Sinquefield Cup, at the St. Louis Chess Club.
Moreover, both chess and music have constraints and restrictions. Just as piano pieces are limited by the 88 keys and ten fingers, chess games, too, are limited by the rules governing the 32 pieces’ movements on an 8 X 8 board. However, in both cases, the possibilities are virtually infinite. Within set boundaries, there is limitless room for creativity.
In other words, Woods’ work as the Director of Classical Music Programming at the World Chess Hall of Fame is a perfect match. In his work, Brian creates unique connections between Chess and Music, such as designing an exhibit highlighting a duel
between violinist David Oistrakh and composer and pianist Sergei Prokofiev, which transpired over the chess board. Organizing and performing music publicized by Oistrakh and compositions of the ever-eccentric Prokofiev, he connects the tense chess match’s world with one of bright violin and grand piano music.
Some of the WCHOF Classical Programming exhibits create connections even more direct and striking. A chess board that plays music with each move of a chess game, for example, converts the physical game into a classical composition.
Woods’ work links the wooden pieces and running clocks of the chess world to the sonorous music world. While piano and chess may be very different in form and concept, their shared philosophy of objectivity meshing with creativity makes them a perfect if unexpected pair, and Woods is the perfect musician to tie them together.
The SSWPA Needs YOU on Our Board of Directors!
Dear friends of the Steinway Society of Western PA,
The SSWPA board of directors would like to invite interested individuals to consider joining us on our board so that we can strengthen our organization and continue to offer the valuable educational and performance opportunities for which we are known. We provide several programs and initiatives unique to the Pittsburgh area, including masterclasses, a student concerto competition, honors recitals, Heinz Hall lobby performances featuring our Young Artists, as well as the captivating performances by the renowned concert pianists that appear on our solo recital series.
Board members are expected to commit to attending meetings, provide guidance and support to our programs, volunteer for administrative tasks and help us foster relationships with donors and sponsors. We are particularly interested in individuals who possess the following qualities and experiences:
While experience in serving on a nonprofit board is valuable, we also welcome individuals who are enthusiastic about joining a board for the first time.
By joining our esteemed board of directors, you will have the opportunity to:
As a board member, you would play a crucial role in shaping the direction of our organization and helping us achieve our mission. Your efforts would have an important and direct impact on the lives of aspiring pianists and classical music fans in our community.
If you or someone you know would like more information about joining the SSWPA board, please reach out to us at: [email protected]
Thank you, and we look forward to hearing from you soon!
Sincerely,
The Steinway Society of Western PA Board
The SSWPA board of directors would like to invite interested individuals to consider joining us on our board so that we can strengthen our organization and continue to offer the valuable educational and performance opportunities for which we are known. We provide several programs and initiatives unique to the Pittsburgh area, including masterclasses, a student concerto competition, honors recitals, Heinz Hall lobby performances featuring our Young Artists, as well as the captivating performances by the renowned concert pianists that appear on our solo recital series.
Board members are expected to commit to attending meetings, provide guidance and support to our programs, volunteer for administrative tasks and help us foster relationships with donors and sponsors. We are particularly interested in individuals who possess the following qualities and experiences:
- A deep appreciation for classical piano music and a commitment to its preservation and promotion.
- Strong leadership skills and a strategic mindset.
- Experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, finance, or marketing.
- Knowledge of the local arts community and networks.
- A desire to contribute time, talent, and resources to support the organization's growth.
While experience in serving on a nonprofit board is valuable, we also welcome individuals who are enthusiastic about joining a board for the first time.
By joining our esteemed board of directors, you will have the opportunity to:
- Shape the future of classical music in our community.
- Collaborate with others who share your passion for the piano.
- Contribute to the growth and sustainability of a vital cultural organization.
As a board member, you would play a crucial role in shaping the direction of our organization and helping us achieve our mission. Your efforts would have an important and direct impact on the lives of aspiring pianists and classical music fans in our community.
If you or someone you know would like more information about joining the SSWPA board, please reach out to us at: [email protected]
Thank you, and we look forward to hearing from you soon!
Sincerely,
The Steinway Society of Western PA Board
The Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh and the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania present Youth Piano Concerto Competition Winner Leona Chen
PITTSBURGH, PA (July 25, 2023) – The Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh and the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania have partnered on a Young Artists Piano Concerto Competition, and the winner, Leona Chen, will perform on September 9, 2023 at 7:30pm in Levy Hall of Rodef Shalom. Chen will perform the first movement of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20, under the direction of guest conductor Matthew Wardell. Chen’s performance opens the 2023-24 season of the Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh. The program for the evening also includes Mozart’s Symphony No. 41 (“Jupiter”) and Boris Blacher’s musical celebration of Mozart, Hommage à Mozart.
A senior at Upper St. Clair High School, Leona Chen studies with Professor Luz Manriquez at the Preparatory School at Carnegie Mellon University School of Music. Leona has won various awards at the Carmel Klavier International Piano Competition, the Pittsburgh Concert Society, the Pittsburgh International Piano Competition, the Streator-Smith Memorial Competition, the UIUC High School Competition, the PPTA Advanced Honors Awards Competition, and the PFMC Piano Competition. Besides piano, Leona plays violin and was selected for the 2022 PMEA All-State Orchestra.
The Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh and the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania have been working since 2022 on the Young Artists Piano Concerto Competition. Edward Leonard, Artistic Director of the Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh, says, “We believe it is important to celebrate the musical achievements of the wonderful emerging artists in our region, and it is a pleasure to work on this partnership with the Steinway Society.” Marina Lupinacci, President of the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania, echoes Leonard’s sentiment in the value of the partnership, saying “It is a rare opportunity for a young artist to perform with a professional ensemble, and we are very pleased to be working with the Chamber Orchestra on this initiative.”
Advance tickets are only $20 (regularly $30) when you use code SSWPA! Buy tickets online at www.copgh.org.
Tickets at the door will be $35. All student tickets are $10, and children under 12 are free.
For more information
The Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh: http://www.copgh.org/
Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania: https://www.sswpa.org/
Matthew Wardell: https://www.matthewwardell.com/about
A senior at Upper St. Clair High School, Leona Chen studies with Professor Luz Manriquez at the Preparatory School at Carnegie Mellon University School of Music. Leona has won various awards at the Carmel Klavier International Piano Competition, the Pittsburgh Concert Society, the Pittsburgh International Piano Competition, the Streator-Smith Memorial Competition, the UIUC High School Competition, the PPTA Advanced Honors Awards Competition, and the PFMC Piano Competition. Besides piano, Leona plays violin and was selected for the 2022 PMEA All-State Orchestra.
The Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh and the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania have been working since 2022 on the Young Artists Piano Concerto Competition. Edward Leonard, Artistic Director of the Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh, says, “We believe it is important to celebrate the musical achievements of the wonderful emerging artists in our region, and it is a pleasure to work on this partnership with the Steinway Society.” Marina Lupinacci, President of the Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania, echoes Leonard’s sentiment in the value of the partnership, saying “It is a rare opportunity for a young artist to perform with a professional ensemble, and we are very pleased to be working with the Chamber Orchestra on this initiative.”
Advance tickets are only $20 (regularly $30) when you use code SSWPA! Buy tickets online at www.copgh.org.
Tickets at the door will be $35. All student tickets are $10, and children under 12 are free.
For more information
The Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh: http://www.copgh.org/
Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania: https://www.sswpa.org/
Matthew Wardell: https://www.matthewwardell.com/about
SSWPA Announces the 2023-2024 Recital Series
October 29, 2023: MARINA LOMAZOV - Cleveland, Gina Bachauer, William Kapel competitions winner
December 3, 2023: MELODY QUAH - Paderewski Competition winner
January 21, 2024: LLEWELLYN SANCHEZ-WERNER - Concert Artists Guild, Gilmore Young Artist
March 24, 2024: BRIAN WOODS - Beverly Hills National Auditions, Verona International Competition, The American Prize
All recitals begin at 3:00 PM and are held in Kresge Theater in the College of Fine Arts Building on the CMU campus.
December 3, 2023: MELODY QUAH - Paderewski Competition winner
January 21, 2024: LLEWELLYN SANCHEZ-WERNER - Concert Artists Guild, Gilmore Young Artist
March 24, 2024: BRIAN WOODS - Beverly Hills National Auditions, Verona International Competition, The American Prize
All recitals begin at 3:00 PM and are held in Kresge Theater in the College of Fine Arts Building on the CMU campus.