Pianos, pianos everywhere!

This beats the cows, pigs, etc. that have been springing up in cities around the globe, on so many levels!

London Wall - Luke Jerram

In this article from the New York Times, the author discusses a project ending today that placed thirty pianos in various locations around London. The man behind the plan, Luke Jerram, has done this previously in Birmingham, England; Sao Paolo, Brazil; and Sidney, Australia…each time with good results.

“They’re out there to get people talking to one another and to claim ownership and activate the public space,” says Mr. Jerram. There are several other benefits, though.

There is a vast, unknown body of talent that exists among the general populace – all of us – wherever we may be. In the linked article, several examples are given of people who haven’t played for years, or who only dabble, saying “Why not?” and just walking up and riffing…to the delight of passersby! Whether it’s Chopsticks or Chopin, sharing the gift of music gives others so much – but it also gives a great deal back to the giver.

Articles like that always make me stop and assess. Improving as a musician does take effort, but on balance, it gives far more than it requires. When I think of the vast richness that playing music – at times well, at times badly – brings to me, I realize how empty life would be without it.

Reflect for a moment if you will, then grant yourself a few minutes to just sit down and play. Whether in front of a large crowd in London or in front of your faithful dog, just play from the heart. Everyone misses notes, and that’s okay. This is your music, your gift to yourself and others. Enjoy it!

Keep playing,
Mark