Colorful Public Pianos Enhance Greenville Music Scene
In the vibrant city of Greenville, a remarkable change has taken root, one that is turning the downtown into an impromptu community concert hall and art exhibition. Local pianists and artists have come together under the banner of the Greenville nonprofit Please Play Me Pianos, founded by Anne McAneny, to transform downtrodden public spaces into vibrant musical hotspots.
Nina Tran Brings Unique Perspective to Greenville Public Pianos
Ann McAneny’s initiative was inspired by a drag queen and artist, Nina Tran, who painted her first public piano in Fort Collins while trying to change the public perception of drag. The Greenville initiative follows a similar mandate – drawing Greenville community together, encouraging people to interact with the public pianos, playing, listening, or just admiring the fantastic artwork.
Artistic Pianos for Public Enjoyment
The pianos, painted with captivating designs by local artists, are being placed in favorite spots around Greenville. Free for anyone to play, the decorated pianos are spreading joy, and enriching the community’s cultural fabric. They aim to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to explore their musical interests and provide a platform for the public to share and appreciate music.
Please Play Me Pianos: A Gift to the Music Lovers
“Perhaps a musical genius is waiting to be discovered right here, or maybe a child will get inspired and take up playing for life!” muses McAneny, excited by the limitless possibilities. If nothing else, she hopes that the joy of playing and the beauty of music will be an uplifting experience for the people who engage with these pianos.
Where to Find The Pianos Around Greenville
Several pianos are already brightening up Greenville with more scheduled to arrive soon. A piano at the Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery pickup window named Howard is now open for the public to play. Another addition to the beautiful piano display is coming soon at Carolina Bauernhaus in early July.
Vibrant Locations and Inspiring Artists
Future locations include The Artistry Gallery, Greenville-Spartanburg Airport, Good Art Co., Samantha Grace Designs/Gallery One/Rocket Fizz, Dapper Dog, and Coupe’s Corner. Pianos will unveil at these locations over the summer, with the final piano expected to go on display by the end of July at the Greenville-Spartanburg Airport, where artists are currently being invited to share their designs.
How to Support Please Play Me Pianos
As a nonprofit, Please Play Me Pianos relies on community support and volunteerism to make this project possible. People can contribute by donating their pianos, volunteering in various capacities such as piano moving, tuning, painting, and upkeep, handling social media and fundraising activities, or sharing their talents as pianists at events. With the community’s involvement, beautiful melodies will continue to resonate through the streets of Greenville, making it a livelier, more pleasing place for everyone.
