The 1812 Piano Lounge, a piano lounge with live music, light bites, and beverages, is anticipated to open in the spring at 1812 W. Allen St. in Allentown's West End. Owner Schaefer had yearned to open her own piano bar in the Lehigh Valley after visiting piano bars in other towns around the country. Schaefer describes the upcoming 1812 Piano Lounge as a "dream" come true since she has long dreamed of opening a piano lounge while managing operations at the nearby Allentown Appliance firm with her late brother, who founded it in 1987. Schaefer worked with her brother for almost 30 years after joining the appliance company in 1996. She is currently the company's president.
Schaefer worked with DesignPoint, a Bethlehem-based design business, to help realize her idea. There will be booths and a variety of high- and low-top tables in the lounge to accommodate 50–60 people. The furnishings and general design will feature rich hues like deep blues, golds, and reds. The construction began Monday and should be completed in about four months.
Serfass Construction of North Whitehall Township is in charge of the project, which will involve new plumbing, flooring, kitchen facilities, restrooms, a bar, a raised stage, and electrical work. A sizable piano painting by local artist Lauren Kuhn is already visible on the building's front, next to the parking lot. Live music performances at 1812 Piano Lounge will include duets, solo piano acts, and ensemble shows with a range of instruments. There will also be entertaining, participatory activities like music bingo and music trivia. The owner wants it be all about fun and music!
Cindy Billera, a restaurant manager with over 25 years of experience, will work alongside Schaefer to run the piano lounge. Schaefer thought it would be a great fit.
In Allentown's West End, a bustling neighborhood where she was raised and now runs her appliance company, Schaefer is thrilled to be able to fulfill her ambition.