They took everything els, but they couldn't take her music.


Directed by George Schaefer, this light made-for-television drama is based upon the novel of the same name by Robert Oliphant. Starring Bette Davis as Esther Cimino, a 73-year-old widow, the film traces the events following Esther's son George's (George Hearn) decision that she is no longer capable of caring for herself in her ederly state. Despite her protests, Esther is ruled incompetent by the legal system, leading her to wage a court battle to regain not only her estate but her dignity as well. Also starring Penny Fuller and Christopher Guest, A Piano for Mrs. Cimino first aired on February 3, 1982 on CBS and was later nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Film Editing.




The story focuses on Esther Cimino, an aging piano teacher who is misdiagnosed as having dementia shortly after her husband passes away. Her son George has her declared incompetent and puts her affairs in the hands of a questionable trustee. Her granddaughter Karen places the woman in a convalescent home overseen by a caring director, and under his patient care Mrs. Cimino blossoms, only to learn her business, home, and all her possessions, including her beloved piano, were sold during her confinement.
With her dignity and health restored, Mrs. Cimino tries to regain control of her life by establishing her independence and retaining control over her remaining assets. Assisting her in her battles is her long lost friend Barney Fellman, who brings her the unexpected promise of romance in her later years.

Airdate: February 3, 1982 on CBS