David Crohan ended his 23 year run as the resident pianist at Palm Beach stalwart Cafe L’Europe on Friday night. The 80-year-old Rhode Island native, who has been blind his whole life, quietly entertained the crowd six nights a week with a mixture of classics and modern pieces, often reimagined in a new way. “David is a beloved icon at Cafe L’Europe,” said co-owner Emanuela Marcello. “He has always enchanted our guests with his charm and beautiful music. For the past 23 years, many have celebrated life while enjoying his music. We are incredibly grateful for the time we had with him and wish him all the best in his retirement.”

To mark his long tenure, PALMER sat down with the talented pianist to learn more about his life and storied career.

 

First, I must ask, how was your last night at the Cafe?
Very nice. They gave me quite a beautiful send off with lots of wonderful speeches. They moved the piano out of the room at the end of the night so not sure they will have another pianist there, but who knows. My son and grandson were also present, which made it even more special.

Let’s talk about your journey to Cafe L’Europe.
Well, I began playing piano by ear at the age of three. After attending the Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown, Massachusetts and then the New England Conservatory in Boston, where I earned three degrees in music, I began my career at 19, playing for several restaurants on Martha’s Vineyard. I later leased the last one, Island House, and ran it as David’s Island House from 1978–1998, continuing to play there. In 1995, I played one season in Palm Beach on the recommendation of friends from the Vineyard and then returned in 2003 for good.

What stands out for you the most from being the resident pianist at Cafe L’Europe for 23 years?
I have to say it’s the relationships I’ve developed with both the owners and the clients over the years. Lidia Goldner, the original owner, once said “hiring you was the best thing I ever did.” That was a highlight for sure. And the new owners are magnificent. I have always been very happy at Cafe L’Europe.

Tell us a bit about your style of playing and how you learn new music.
Well, being blind my whole life has been an obstacle, but certainly not a calamity. I wouldn’t change it if I could because it’s given me a different perspective on the music. For classical music, I read the braille notations (playing with one hand while reading with the other and then, vice versa), but for everything else, it’s by ear, so that gives me an opportunity to change it a bit. Take “Hello Young Lovers” from The King and I. It’s a bit of a waltz, but I like to transform it to something closer to a Bossa nova. So I really enjoy that. While classical music teaches discipline, everything else allows me to have some freedom, some play. It’s a nice balance.

Who are some of the most interesting people you’ve met at Cafe L’Europe?
Vic Damone, the former owner, is one that immediately stands out. Just a great guy and a fantastic storyteller… fun stories of Sinatra and such.

What has changed the most in your opinion over the 23 years, both in general and at the Cafe?
Well, when I started, technology as we know it today was in its infancy. Now, all has changed. For me it’s been very positive… the way I read books has changed, I can read books on my phone and don’t always have to rely on braille. Also, I can use email. So it’s all been great for me as it has given me the opportunity to do more than I could do before.

What’s the best life advice you ever got and can give to others?
Just to never give in or give up. And I would say the same to someone else. If you find something you excel in, do it as well and for as long as you can.

What are you retirement plans?
I never thought much about retiring, but I guess it’s time and my wife and I will move back to Rhode Island to be closer to family. My current piano will remain in storage here, but my wife has one up north that I hope will fit into our new space. I don’t plan on stopping… playing piano has been a great joy my whole life and it’s been a grand run so far!