Legendary Disney Pianist Carol Stein Begins New Chapter at Casey’s Corner

Walt Disney World visitors walking down Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom will notice a familiar face sitting at the outdoor piano outside Casey’s Corner. Longtime Disney pianist Carol Stein has officially taken her place at the bench, bringing her extensive musical background to one of the resort’s most popular entertainment spots.

Stein is a 36-year Disney cast member whose career with the company began in 1990 at the Comedy Warehouse on Pleasure Island. Over the decades, the Central Florida native has performed at numerous locations across Walt Disney World. Her notable roles include serving as the resident musician at the Rose and Crown Pub in EPCOT, playing at EPCOT festivals, performing at the Hoop-De-Doo Musical Revue at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, and playing at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Although Stein announced her retirement from full-time performing in November 2022, she continues to return as a seasonal cast member.

Taking on the Casey’s Corner assignment marks a new challenge for the veteran pianist. Stein began playing piano at age two and started formal lessons at age four. While she is well-acquainted with performing for Disney guests, she admitted that starting her newest role brings some excitement and nerves, comparing the experience to the first day of school. In preparation for her debut, she spent time learning new songs and revisiting favorites she had not previously had the opportunity to play.

At Casey’s Corner, Stein performs a mix of traditional ragtime classics associated with the location alongside selections from her own musical favorites. This includes work by composer Alan Menken, such as music from The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

Stein draws inspiration for her performances from her favorite Disney character, Tinker Bell. Just as Tinker Bell tinkers with things and fixes them, Stein views her music as a way to lift guests’ spirits, whether that means cheering up someone who is sad or playing a special requested song for someone who is already celebrating. Through live performance, she aims to create personal connections and touch the lives of visitors who stop to listen while passing through the park’s central hub near Cinderella Castle.

For guests visiting Magic Kingdom, Stein’s arrival offers a chance to see a beloved resort performer in a fresh setting. Her performances provide spontaneous, accessible entertainment that requires no reservation or planning, adding another layer of live music and atmosphere to Main Street, U.S.A.