Folio.YVR ☆ Issue 28 ☆ First Light Fazioli | Showcase Pianos Presents

The First Light Fazioli, an extraordinary masterpiece, has emerged as a striking centrepiece within Westbank Corp's landmark development in Seattle, WA. Meticulously crafted by the artisans of Fazioli, this piano transcends its role as a mere instrument, manifesting as an immersive work of art that captures the quintessence of light and transforms it into a harmonious interplay of colour, shadow, and sound.

Specifically designed for the luminous First Light Seattle building, this architectural marvel is a stunning synthesis of vision brought to life through the collaboration of esteemed architect James K.M. Cheung and glass artist John Hogan.

The First Light Fazioli stands as a recent testament to Westbank's unwavering commitment to architectural artistry and innovation.

Celebrated for their partnerships with distinguished architects and artists, including architect Kengo Kuma and origamist Joseph Wu, Westbank enlisted Fazioli to conceive a piano that resonates with the building's ambiance, an intricate dance of Seattle's natural light interwoven with Hogan's exquisite glasswork installations.

As Black As Night

The piano's matte black exterior is both enigmatic and captivating. Each surface, from the casework to the castors, pedals, and even the Fazioli insignia, is enveloped in a sumptuous, velvety black finish that absorbs light, providing a striking contrast to the dazzling display above. The true alchemy resides in the piano's lid: embedded with dichroic glass inserts, it metamorphoses light into a kaleidoscopic spectacle.

Drawing inspiration from materials initially engineered by NASA to shield astronauts' vision, the dichroic glass panels refract and transmit a spectrum of hues, casting dynamic patterns of light into the lobby and upon the piano itself. As light filters through the lid's 115 meticulously arranged glass panels, the space becomes suffused with colour, reminiscent of the ethereal beauty of stained glass.

The all-black keyboard, encompassing both natural keys and sharps, adeptly directs attention to this vivid lid - t is a bold design choice acknowledged by professional pianists, who noted the unique tactile and visual experience it renders during the instrument's inaugural performance. Their reflections attested to the extraordinary synergy of artistry and functionality that characterizes the First Light Fazioli.

Art with a Purpose

Valued at an estimated $750,000, the First Light Fazioli is not merely an investment; it epitomizes Westbank's visionary outlook, Fazioli's unparalleled craftsmanship, and the transformative potential of light and colour in redefining spatial experiences and ephemeral moments. Now, within Seattle's First Light building, this piano conjures music, light, and a profound sense of wonder for all fortunate enough to partake in its brilliance.

Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine is pleased to collaborate with Showcase Pianos in this series that presents exquisite pianos that bring such joy to the world.