Ruth Brewer Eisenberg

Ruth Brewer Eisenberg was an American pianist born in 1902. She is best known for being part of the inter-racial piano duo "Ebony and Ivory," alongside Margaret Patrick. Prior to her musical collaboration with Patrick, Eisenberg had established herself as a classical pianist, having undergone extensive study and performance in the field. Her career took an unexpected turn when she suffered a stroke in 1982, which resulted in partial disability, specifically affecting her left side.

Following her stroke, Eisenberg met Margaret Patrick at a post-stroke support group in Englewood, New Jersey. The program's director, aware of their shared passion for music, introduced them with the idea that they could potentially play together as one. Despite Patrick's stroke having affected her right side, the duo was able to adapt and continue playing piano. They were later dubbed "Ebony and Ivory" by a reporter, in reference to the popular song by Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder. Eisenberg passed away in 1996, leaving behind a legacy as a talented pianist who continued to make music despite adversity.