This permanent exhibition at the Exilarte Center showcases the Bösendorfer grand piano that belonged to Emmy and Egon Wellesz. It details the instrument's history, its association with the couple, and its journey back to Vienna following their emigration.
The Exilarte Center presents a permanent exhibition dedicated to the Bösendorfer grand piano owned by art historian Emmy Wellesz and composer Egon Wellesz. The exhibition traces the history of this significant instrument, from its purchase as a wedding present by Emmy's father in 1909 to its relocation to Oxford following the couple's emigration in July 1938. It highlights the close relationship Emmy maintained with Les Thompson, a music teacher and student of Egon Wellesz, who eventually acquired the piano. The narrative follows the piano's path through auction and its eventual acquisition by the mdw's exil.arte Center in March 2016, its transport back to Vienna, and its restoration by Gert Hecher, culminating in its presentation in May 2017 as part of the exhibition “I return to Vienna when I compose”.
Biographical details about Emmy Wellesz (1889-1987), an art historian specializing in Byzantine studies, and Egon Wellesz (1885-1974), a composer and musicologist focused on early music, new music, and Byzantine neumes, are provided. The Bösendorfer grand piano is identified as a "Mahogany Model 4" (225 cm), built between November 1908 and February 1909, with sales number 18913 and serial number 10081. This exhibition serves as a poignant reminder of cultural displacement and the enduring legacy of artists and intellectuals.