Chelsea Hospital Gifted Grand Piano for Main Lobby

Pictured above: Andy Sacks, seated, and Carl Schwarze, standing.

When Immanuel Bible Church of Chelsea recently made changes to its worship services, congregant and Chelsea Hospital volunteer Rick Wallace recognized an opportunity for the church’s piano to continue serving the community. Believing the donation aligned with the church’s commitment to service, Rick helped connect the effort, and fellow congregant – and Chelsea resident – Carl Schwarze facilitated the donation and delivery. After 40 years of accompanying joyful worship music, the piano has now found a new home at Chelsea Hospital, where it will continue to uplift others.

Renowned photographer, documentarian, and local pianist Andy Sacks contracted Paul Zieger of The Piano Medic in Jackson to go through the Knabe piano and bring it back to life. “I have been playing piano for 70 years, and the first and only piano we had in my suburban Detroit home, was a small Knabe spinet,” said Sacks a Chelsea resident. “This Knabe grand has a light responsive action, and a bright midrange register. The sound fills the lobby nicely, even when played softly.”

“The inclusion of a live musician playing a traditional piano made of wood and steel is a nice addition to any hospital.” Sacks explains, “Some people come to the hospital to receive good news, others not so good.  Maybe my playing helps them through or lightens their load a little bit. Music can do that.”

I like to play music from the “American Song Book,” tunes that were written by Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Harold Arlen-- songs that have a couple of verses, called the A sections, and a bridge, the B section,” Sacks says.

Philanthropy is about far more than giving money – it’s about forming meaningful partnerships and sharing time, talents, and compassion,” says Jennifer Maisch, director of philanthropy at Chelsea Hospital. “The vision of Mr. Wallace and Mr. Schwarze in donating the piano, Mr. Sacks’ generosity in having it refurbished, and the volunteer musicians who share their gifts all help bring the healing power of music to Chelsea Hospital. Together, this collaborative effort creates moments of comfort, joy, and connection for our patients, families, and colleagues.”

Musicians from the hospital staff, and other experienced pianists from the visiting public are welcome to make use of the instrument in the main lobby. To inquire about playing in the hospital lobby or for any information about giving to the hospital, contact Jennifer Maisch at Jennifer.maisch@trainity-health.org.