An all-Chopin program celebrating the life and legacy of legendary American pianist and pedagogue Ann Schein (November 10, 1939–April 16, 2026).

ANN SCHEIN
Ann Schein was an internationally acclaimed pianist whose remarkable career spanned more than six decades. Praised by The Washington Post for her ability to “reach right into the heart” of the music she performed, she was celebrated for her powerful interpretations of the Romantic repertoire, particularly Chopin.

Following her Carnegie Hall debut as a young artist on the Sol Hurok roster, Schein performed in more than 50 countries with leading orchestras and conductors, including the New York Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, London Symphony Orchestra, George Szell, James Levine, Seiji Ozawa, and Sir Colin Davis. She appeared frequently at London’s BBC Proms and performed at the White House during the Kennedy administration.

A distinguished educator as well as performer, Schein served on the piano faculty of the Peabody Conservatory for more than two decades and was an artist-faculty member of the Aspen Music Festival and School. She joined the piano faculty of Mannes School of Music in 2017, where she inspired generations of students with her artistry and mentorship.

Her acclaimed discography included recordings of works by Chopin, Schumann, Carter, Copland, Debussy, and Ravel. In recognition of her contributions to music, Schein received numerous honors, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Museum of Women in the Arts in 2018 and a Distinguished Alumni Award from Peabody Conservatory in 2012.

Ann Schein passed away in 2026, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a pianist, educator, and mentor whose influence continues through the many musicians she inspired.