Kennedy Center moves to sell all of its Steinway pianos

Systemic Error Podcast · Oct 4, 2026 · 5m

What happened

AlterNet reports that Steinway grand pianos were removed from the Kennedy Center and moved for sale while the building was closed. A Washington Steinway representative said the instruments were being offered at heavy discounts; photographs taken by mover Van Lewis showed the removal, and Kennedy Center harpist Susan Robinson said musicians had noticed the pianos disappearing.

The closure’s duration and legal status remain contested. Director Matt Floca announced one week of closure, then another. The Justice Department told the court the center was not closing permanently and…