THE TOWNHOUSE
A Manhattan Landmark of Artistic Legacy
Tucked amidst the elegance of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, the townhouse at East 80th Street is a jewel of New York’s architectural and cultural history. Constructed in the early 20th century, this stately Beaux-Arts residence stands as a testament to the opulence and craftsmanship of its era. Its graceful façade and meticulously designed interiors exude timeless sophistication, making it a distinguished presence in one of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods.
For decades, this townhouse was owned by Frederick R. Koch, the celebrated collector and philanthropist renowned for his unwavering dedication to the arts and cultural preservation. Known for his passion for literature, music, and fine art, Fred Koch transformed this home into a sanctuary of creativity and an archive of extraordinary cultural artifacts. Upon his passing, he entrusted this magnificent property to his Foundation, ensuring its legacy as a space devoted to artistic excellence and innovation.
Today, the Townhouse serves as a vibrant hub for artists, writers, and thinkers, echoing Koch’s lifelong commitment to nurturing creativity. The townhouse’s elegant rooms offer an inspiring backdrop for artistic residencies, intimate performances, and cultural exchanges.
The Townhouse at East 80th Street is more than just a building—it is a living embodiment of Frederick R. Koch’s vision to celebrate and advance the arts. Its legacy endures as a place where history, creativity, and innovation converge, enriching both its residents and the broader cultural landscape of New York City.
THE TOWNHOUSE SERIES
The Townhouse Series is a new set of filmed concerts curated by Daniel Schlosberg filmed at The Townhouse with programs spanning the baroque era to contemporary works. Each program also includes an informal “Vignette” profile of the artist, including interviews with each.
CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY OF LINCOLN CENTRE
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center presents a series of eight free, digital performances, produced and directed by Art Docs, with the generous support of The Frederick R. Koch Foundation, at The Frederick R. Koch Foundation Townhouse, a historic property built by F.W. Woolworth. The Townhouse is the perfect setting for chamber music, architecturally stunning and full of beautiful artworks and objets d’art from around the world. The concerts honor the late Frederick R. Koch’s lifelong dedication to generously supporting the visual and performing arts.
THE SCHUBERT SERIES
The Frederick R. Koch Foundation proudly presents The Schubert Series, a trio concert series curated by world-renowned pianist Adam Golka. The series showcases three compositions from among Schubert's best-known works performed by Mr. Golka, and also by pianist Yannick Rafalin and violinist Itamar Zorman.
The foundation's YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook sites offer a variety of performances presented for public education and enjoyment. The performance, recording, and sharing of these performances honors and perpetuates Mr. Koch's lifelong dedication to generously supporting all forms of artistic expression.
The Schubert Series was recorded at the Frederick R. Koch Foundation's historic townhouse in Manhattan at 6 East 80th Street. The house was commissioned by "five and dime king" F.W. Woolworth as a gift for his youngest daughter, Jessie Woolworth Donohue. It was designed by legendary architect C.P.H. Gilbert and built in 1915-16. Frederick Koch acquired the property in 1986 and began a decade-long conservation and improvement of the mansion. Its rooms are perfectly proportioned for chamber music and are also the repository of beautiful works from the late Mr. Koch's extensive collections of fine and decorative art, rare books, and other objets de virtu.
