David Hyde Pierce to highlight Chicago piano fest

Chicago is getting ready to celebrate the piano.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association plans to host the “Keys to the City Piano Festival” for three weeks from May 23 to June 12. The festival is curated by world-renowned pianist Emanuel Ax and includes recitals, chamber music and symphonic concerts.

The highlight of the festival is “Free Chicago Piano Day” on May 27 hosted by former “Frasier” star and Tony Award-winning actor David Hyde Pierce. Pierce also is an amateur pianist. The day will feature recitals, seminars, demonstrations and piano lessons.