The most hotly anticipated performance of this year’s Grammy Awards ceremony certainly lived up to its hype, as Lady Gaga and Elton John opened the show with a glam-stoked duet of epic proportions. Visually, John and Gaga dazzled in their glittery get-ups, but nearly as eye-catching was the stunning dual-piano the two shared.
Following Lady Gaga’s rousing introductory performance – wherein the pop sensation delivered a lavishly choreographed version of “Poker Face” – Gaga seated herself across from Sir Elton at the dual-piano, where icon and newcomer traded verses in a powerful mash-up of Gaga’s “Speechless” and John’s classic “Your Song.”
“How wonderful life is with Gaga in the world!” John sang at one point, altering the lyric to his 1970 hit. The performance generated a standing ovation.
But what about that spectacular instrument at which the duo sat? It turns out the double-sided piano was manufactured from a full Baldwin “R” acoustic piano, fitted with a midi-trigger interfaced with Sir Elton’s personal sonic choices, and attached to various pieces of a Baldwin “R” shell which was previously used in the 1972 film, The Poseidon Adventure.
In addition, Lady Gaga’s creative team worked with the piano’s designers to create the striking decorative arms mounted on top of the instrument. The result was one of the most memorable moments in the Grammys’ 52-year history.
Click here to see video of the performance, along with photos of the custom-crafted Baldwin:
