College of St. Rose rehomes its legacy as campus closes

ALBANY (NEWS10) -- As the College of St. Rose officially shuts its doors, the task of handling its treasured assets has begun—a process that reaches far beyond textbooks and buildings. From rare artworks to meticulously chosen pianos, these cherished artifacts are now poised for new homes, marking the end of an era. News10’s Laura Taglianetti explores the poignant process of parting with items that once defined the campus.

The college's closure signals a sweeping transition. Among the assets slated for sale are an array of musical instruments, including a collection of Steinway pianos that held a special place at St. Rose. Dr. Young Kim, a former piano professor at the college, personally selected many of these pianos, envisioning a Steinway-only program to support students’ musical development.

“It’s heartbreaking for me and many people,” Dr. Kim shared. “But I wish those pianos can find a nice home.” The most meaningful to her is the concert grand Steinway, which was housed in the college’s recital hall. “I played so many concerts on that piano,” Kim reflected. Her attachment goes beyond mere function—it's a connection to years of performances and memories.

A Steinway artist, Dr. Kim dedicated her work to the Steinway brand, bringing a high standard of musical excellence to St. Rose. “Our goal was to become all Steinway,” she noted. Some of the pianos, now priced around $70,000, are still relatively young in terms of their lifespan and musical potential. Steinways are known to last between 80 to 100 years, yet the college's pianos are only between 10 to 20 years old, making their sale a unique opportunity.

Paul Jennings, from Artist Pianos, is coordinating the sale of the instruments and acknowledged the exceptional pricing. “A new Steinway can cost around $140,000. So these late-model pianos, priced at $70,000, are young in Steinway terms and offered at liquidation prices.”

In addition to the musical instruments, the college has also received court approval to sell its art collection, with sales anticipated to begin in December.

As the College of St. Rose takes steps to distribute its legacy, the community bids farewell to pieces that once defined campus life, each destined to continue its story elsewhere.