Piano By Steven Turns 25. A Note from Steven
2024 marks a year-long celebration of 25 years of Piano by Steven. As I sit at my piano, one hand playing the keys and the other pinching my cheeks, I can't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude and joy. This journey has been a rich tapestry, woven with threads of triumphs, trials, and countless notes that have resonated through the years. Each performance and every practice session has been guided by my unwavering love for music and the steadfast support from family, friends, and fans. From the early days at Eli’s Cheesecake Factory to places like Carnegie Hall, my career has been nothing less than a symphony of experiences. It is a journey marked not only by professional achievements but also by personal growth, relationships, and fun memories. Yet, none of this would have been possible without the incredible clients who have invited me into their lives, allowing me to be a part of their most important moments in life.
The piano has been my loyal companion through heartbreaks, new adventures, and everyday joys and sorrows. From high school talent shows playing “Personality” to studying piano and music education at Western Illinois University, to marrying the love of my life, Theresa, music has been my unwavering ally. It has provided comfort in times of grief, discipline when I needed to focus, and a profound sense of purpose throughout my life. Each note played, each melody crafted, reflects my journey. The piano has been more than an instrument; it has been a confidant and a source of endless inspiration. It has taught me patience, discipline, and the value of creativity and self-expression, allowing me to communicate emotions and stories that words alone could never convey.
It All Started with Cheesecake
Piano By Steven started on a cold December day in 1999 at Eli’s Cheesecake Factory—located on the northwest side of Chicago in Portage Park. At just ten years old, I sat nervously at the piano, my feet barely touching the ground, too scared to look up at the crowd. My dad, Bob, who from that day on became my manager, believed in my potential even when I was riddled with nerves. His encouragement pushed me (and still pushes me) through my fears. I played my set, receiving applause and a payment in cheesecakes.
Watching a video of that first performance recently, I saw a boy who wasn’t smiling at the crowd, wasn’t engaged, and was scared to receive applause—worried about what people thought. But that boy has come a long way. From playing at Roeser’s Bakery to performing at countless events, my journey has been one of continuous growth and learning. Each experience has built upon the last, shaping the musician and person I am today.
Eli’s Cheesecake Factory will forever hold a special place in my heart (and stomach), not just because it is where Piano by Steven was founded, but because of the early lessons I learned there.
Where I Learned to Entertain
One of the most pivotal periods in my early career was my seven-year stint at Leona’s in Rogers Park. After starting with gigs at Eli's Cheesecake Factory, where I was paid in cheesecakes, I moved on to Leona's, where I was compensated with pizzas and my favorite, garlic bread. Playing there twice a month on Sundays provided me with invaluable experience, interacting with people from all walks of life and developing my extensive repertoire.
Leona’s was where I honed my ability to play the piano while holding a conversation, a skill that has set me apart as an entertainer. The tradition was to start and end each performance with the jazz classic "Satin Doll" by Duke Ellington. Whenever my dad heard that familiar tune while sitting at a booth recording a video (as he often did and still does), he knew it was time to get started or wrap up. This routine helped me gain confidence in my skills and made performing at Leona’s an incredibly fun experience.
The intimate and interactive setting of Leona’s allowed me to connect with my audience on a personal level, fostering friendships and building a loyal following. Friends began to notice my performances and spread the word, leading to more opportunities. It’s also where I learned how to play piano while simultaneously holding a conversation with those in the audience. Before I knew it, I was balancing school by day and gigging at night, feeling incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement from a community that had become like family. These experiences at Leona's were instrumental in shaping my identity as a musician and entertainer, laying the groundwork for the way I perform now: providing extraordinary, memorable, and fun musical performances.
Becoming Someone You Should Know
By the time I was in my senior year of high school, I had met the Mayor, the Governor, and many other dignitaries. Around this time, I was featured on ABC 7 Chicago’s "Someone You Should Know" segment with Harry Porterfield. Sharing my music on television allowed me to reach a wider audience and connect with people in a new and exciting way. The first time I appeared on TV, I was both excited and nervous. The bright lights, the cameras, the crew bustling around—it was a whole new world. But once I started playing, all the nerves melted away, and it was just me and the music, as it always has been. That appearance opened doors to new opportunities and allowed me to share my passion for music with a broader audience.
My Time at Western Illinois University
After high school, I attended Western Illinois University, where I studied piano and music education. My time there was transformative, providing me with a solid foundation in both jazz and classical music. The rigorous curriculum and the dedicated faculty challenged me to expand my musical horizons and refine my technical skills. It was during this period that I began to understand the depth and complexity of music, appreciating its nuances and its power to convey emotion.
Learning jazz opened up a new world of improvisation and creative expression. The freedom to experiment with different harmonies and rhythms was exhilarating, and it allowed me to develop my unique style. At the same time, my classical training instilled in me a deep respect for precision and discipline. The interplay between these two genres has profoundly influenced my approach to music, allowing me to blend structured elegance with spontaneous creativity.
During my time at Western Illinois, I also began composing my original music. This was a pivotal moment in my career, as it allowed me to express my innermost thoughts and emotions through my compositions. Each piece I created was a reflection of my personal experiences, my joys, and my struggles. Sharing my original music with audiences has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey, as it has allowed me to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
Some of My Most Standout Performances
Over the years, there have been numerous memorable moments that have shaped my career, and the most meaningful of these have been the connections I've made with my clients. Each event has been an opportunity to create something special, to contribute to moments that people will remember for the rest of their lives.
Performing at the Frank Sinatra Twin Palms Estate was one of the most iconic experiences of my career. The history and elegance of the venue added a special layer to the performance. Playing in a place filled with so much musical history was a unique and unforgettable experience. The estate, with its mid-century modern architecture and lush gardens, exuded a timeless charm. As I played, I felt a deep connection to the musical legends who had once graced the same space. The audience, too, seemed to be transported to a different era, their faces reflecting the magic of the moment.
Another unique gig was performing as a character from the show "Atlanta" at the Hulu Motel. The atmosphere was charged with creativity and excitement. Blending acting and music in such a setting was surreal and brought a new dimension to my performance. The motel, located at the old Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City, CA, with its retro decor and vibrant energy, was the perfect backdrop for this immersive experience. As I donned the character's costume, a Hugh-Hefner-like robe, and embraced the role with a haunting voice, I felt a sense of freedom and creativity that was truly unique. The audience's enthusiastic response when I played theme songs from their favorite Hulu shows, along with the collaborative spirit of the event, made it an unforgettable highlight of my career.
From intimate dinner parties to corporate events and weddings on Friday the 13th, the variety of settings has enriched my career. Each event brings its own flavor and story. Whether it’s a lavish wedding in Las Vegas with singer Michael Sinatra, with over 500 people, or a cozy house concert solo, or with my long-time duet partner Soo, the joy of making someone's day extraordinary, memorable, and fun is what drives me. These experiences have allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level, sharing in their most significant moments and creating lasting memories.
One of the most memorable weddings I performed at took place in a picturesque vineyard. The couple had a deep love for music and had curated a playlist that reflected their journey together. As I played their chosen songs, the bride and groom exchanged glances filled with love and nostalgia. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the vineyard, and the guests, moved by the music and the beautiful surroundings, danced and celebrated with joy. It was a truly magical evening, and I felt honored to be a part of it.
Corporate events, too, have provided unique and enriching experiences. One such event was an elegant social influencer dinner for the French skincare brand Caudalíe. The theme of the evening was “Classic Hollywood,” and the venue was transformed into a moment in time, complete with pictures of the rat pack and waiters serving guests at a long communal dinner table with beautiful flower arrangements. As I played jazzy tunes, the guests, dressed in elegant attire, mingled and enjoyed the enchanting atmosphere. The evening was a resounding success, and I received wonderful compliments from the organizers and guests alike.
But beyond the unique brand pop-ups and corporate events, it's the personal moments that continue to resonate. I remember a small, intimate wedding where the bride and groom requested a medley of their favorite songs: My Chemical Romance into Bright Eyes’ “This Is The Best Day Of My Life.” As I played, they held each other close, swaying to the music with tears in their eyes. Their families gathered around, sharing in the emotional moment. It was a reminder of how important it is for me to be present and give my best performance for each and every client that I’m honored to play for.
Carnegie Hall Debut at Age 20
Throughout my career, I’ve had the honor of performing in some of the most prestigious venues and for some truly remarkable individuals. Playing at Carnegie Hall at just 20 years old was a dream come true. The history and grandeur of that stage is something every musician aspires to experience. Standing there, playing my heart out, was a pinnacle moment in my career. The acoustics, the audience, and the very air of the place seemed to resonate with the echoes of past performances by some of the greatest musicians in history. It was an experience that left an indelible mark on my soul.
Carnegie Hall, with its majestic architecture and world-renowned reputation, was a place I had always dreamed of performing at. The day of my performance, I remember walking onto the stage, feeling just like that kid at Eli’s Cheesecake Factory in 1999, but this time the hall was filled with an expectant audience of people in their Sunday best. Their eyes fixed on me as I took my seat at the grand piano. As I began to play my solo, the rich, resonant tones filled the hall, and I felt a profound connection to the piece I was playing and the atmosphere. The applause that followed was something I’ll never forget.
Thank You to My Family
The relationships I’ve nurtured throughout this journey have been a cornerstone of my career. My dad, Bob, has been my lifelong manager and a constant source of support. His guidance and unwavering belief in me have been, well, unwavering, even during times when I doubted myself. I owe so much to Bob—his encouragement, love of travel, dedication, and those signature eyebrows. No one is as dedicated as Bob; it's what makes him, well, him. It's one of the many reasons I am thankful to have had a dad like him.
My mom, also known as Nennen, has always been my constant cheerleader. Despite her demanding career as a nurse, she provided emotional support and encouragement, and always drove me to school. Her smile, sense of humor, and caring nature have been invaluable. Clients often comment on my nice smile, and I know I owe that to her. She taught me to be fun and goofy whenever life allows for it, and she is the reason I wear my heart on my sleeve (as does Bob, but if you’re still reading, you probably knew that already).
My wife, Theresa, has been an incredible support system since I met her. Her expertise in music marketing and her unwavering support have been a game-changer for "Piano by Steven." In my wedding vows, I surprised her by rolling out a piano and singing and playing for her. Fortunately, she liked the performance because she ended up saying, “I do!” Since that day, we’ve traveled the world, and she’s recorded many videos of me playing the piano in hotels, parks, and for family. We’ve built a beautiful life with friends and family in both Chicago and Los Angeles (she’s from the Chicago area too!). We lean on each other, pick each other up, and have even started to finish each other's sentences. She’s edited this long blog post because I would probably summarize my entire life in three sentences, as I tend to be a man of brevity when it comes to details.
My aunts, uncles, cousins, and family friends have all played a part in my journey. Their support and encouragement have meant the world to me. My piano teacher, Julie, is by far the biggest musical influence in my life. She and her husband, Reno, have left a positive impact on me through their support and perspective. They are like a second set of parents. I appreciate how my holidays have always been filled with music and the moments when I get to hear and learn from Julie’s playing and Reno’s jokes.
Gramps, with his unforgettable sense of humor and love for music, was a huge inspiration for me growing up. His passion for music and life has always been a guiding force for me. He taught me to go with the flow, to tell a pun, and to enjoy every moment.
Even my friends have been a source of support and inspiration. Many of them have been there from the beginning, coming to my shows and spreading the word about my music. I am incredibly thankful for their support and their poker skills, which have provided many memorable evenings.
Thank You To My Incredible Clients
While my family has been the bedrock of my journey, I would not be where I am today without the incredible clients who have supported me along the way. Each performance, each event, has been a collaborative effort, a shared experience that has enriched my career and my life. I am grateful for each and every one of my clients. Your support has been more than just professional; it has been personal. You have become a part of my extended family, and your encouragement has been a well of inspiration. If you’ve made it this far, you’re part of a very special few, and to you, I am ever so appreciative of your support of my music and friendship.
To Another 25 Years
As I look ahead to the next 25 years, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. There are still so many places I want to play, so many people I want to meet, and so many memories I want to create. While I’ve had the honor of playing for some incredible individuals and at some amazing events, the heart of my journey lies in the relationships I’ve built and the impact my music has had on others.
I hope to continue making special moments filled with wonderful piano music for your events. Interacting with people, having conversations while I play, learning custom songs for their special moments—all of these aspects make my career so much fun. At the end of the day, it's about making your day extraordinary, memorable, and fun because that's also what it does for me.
Thank you once again for your unwavering support. Your encouragement and belief in me have been the driving force behind my career. I look forward to continuing this journey with you, creating many more magical moments together, and celebrating the next 25 years of "Piano by Steven." Here’s to more fun performances, unforgettable gigs, and beautiful memories.
Sincerely,
Steven