Click Here to read more about The Tom Fontaine Elton John Collection presented in this auction.
Please Note: A portion of the proceeds from sale of the Elton John lots, 229–281, will be donated to The Elton John Aids Foundation.
In 1988, Elton John embarked on his "Reg Strikes Back" world tour in support of the album of the same name. The tour went around the world, literally, stretching from the U.S. starting in September 1988, to Japan for four shows that fall, and finishing in Europe from March to June of 1989. To promote the October 1, 1988, concert at The Summit in Houston, Texas, a radio station ran a contest where several fans would win a piano played and signed by Elton John. The offered "Grand Piano Co." upright piano was awarded to lucky fan "Barbara," and it was inscribed by Elton John on the night of the concert: "To Barbara with Love Elton John Oct 1 1988." The inscription and massive signature stretch nearly two feet across the top of the piano, making this an absolute showpiece in any room it will occupy. The accompanying signed letter, dated April 17, 2005, from a later owner of the piano recounts the details of the event. "To the best of my knowledge, this is the story of the piano signed 'With Love, Elton John, Oct 1, 1988.' I purchased the piano from Barbara's mother in 1989 or the early 90's. According to Barbara's mother, Barbara entered a radio contest to win a piano signed by Elton John at his Houston concert in October, 1988. There were several pianos (5?, 6?) given away. Elton tickled the ivories and signed each piano to the contest winners. It was my understanding that all the pianos were on stage before they were signed and delivered to the winner." This is an incredible opportunity to acquire a piano with direct connections to one of Elton John's most famous concert tours. Also included with the piano is a ticket stub to the show as well as a copy of an article reviewing the concert in the next day's issue of The Houston Chronicle, from October 2, 1988. The piano measures 57 ¼ x 38 ½ x 24 ¾ inches and presents in playable condition with no serious distresses. The instrument's smaller height defines it a a "spinet" piano, and Grand Piano Co. manufactured more affordable upright pianos in the period. Please Note: Shipping costs will be significant-please inquire for a shipping quote.