Ladies’ Library Association

The Gilmore is excited to partner with the Ladies’ Library Association on a new series of public programs hosted by the LLA. All are welcome, though space is limited. Reservations can be made through the Ladies’ Library Association’s links below.

300 YEARS, 88 KEYS, 11 DAYS

with Dr. Zaide Pixley, Musicologist

Friday, March 13, 2026 | 2:00-3:30 | Ladies’ Library Association | REGISTER

With an enormous range of genres and styles ranging from Bach to Beethoven, Pauline Viardot to Steve Reich, the repertoire for the piano is vast: 300 years and counting! Join musicologist Dr. Zaide Pixley, Kalamazoo College Professor Emerita, to explore some of the music to be heard at the 2026 Gilmore Festival and consider what it requires of the piano–and the pianist–to perform it well. The talk will be followed by a light reception.

Pianos, Programming, and Decision-making

with D Marie Jones, Piano Technician

April 9, 2026 | 2:00PM | Ladies’ Library Association | REGISTER

Piano Technician D Marie Jones will discuss the complex and fascinating process that goes into determining which of The Gilmore’s fleet of Steinway pianos is chosen for each performance and artist. Learn the specifics of how musical programming choices play one of the deep roles in pre-selection for the artists. The talk will be followed by a light reception.

Book Discussion – Moscow Nights with hosts Judy Sarkozy & WMUK’s Cara Lieurance

Sunday, April 19 | 2:00-3:30PM | Ladies’ Library Association | REGISTER

Read and discuss the gripping narrative nonfiction that tells the dramatic story of a remarkable young Texan pianist, Van Cliburn, who played his way through the wall of fear built by the Cold War, won the hearts of the American and Russian people, and eased tensions between two superpowers on the brink of nuclear war. The discussion will be followed by a light reception.

An Afternoon with Sara Davis Buechner

Friday, May 8 | 4:30-6:00PM | Ladies’ Library Association | REGISTER

In advance of her Gilmore Festival theatrical performance, “Of Pigs and Pianos”  prize-winning pianist Sara Davis Buechner will talk about her experience as a transgender woman and classical pianist. Presented in collaboration with the Ladies Library Association and  OutFront Kalamazoo, this special event will also feature information about community resources for LGBTQ+ individuals, and a light reception.