Street pianos bring music

Street pianos bring music

Artistically decorated pianos have popped up at various locations in the CBD as part of the Play Me, I’m Yours street piano project. 

Running from January 19 to February 4, the interactive installation features pianos donated and decorated by community artists and groups at locations such as Flinders Street Station, the County Court, Chinatown and Queen Victoria Market.

The initiative encourages people to pull up a stool and play the pianos to activate the urban space.

Indian architecture student Zari Subhlok and Chinese artist Xiaolan Li painted the street piano in front of the County Court on William St with a few other international students.

This piano features a combination of Asian and Australian art patterns and words from international students about their "Melbourne experience".

The two artists, both new to Melbourne, reflect their own cultural heritage through the artwork.

“Our piano represents international students who are also part of Melbourne’s community,” Ms Li said.

Ms Subhlok said she was excited to see passer-bys play the piano and hear music waft through the CBD’s law precinct.

“County Court is such a serious place and it’s great to hear some music that can help relieve people’s stress,” she said.

Play Me, I’m Yours has been touring around the world since 2008, with more than 1850 pianos installed across 55 cities.

The project is the brainchild of British artist Luke Jerram whose original idea was to facilitate more conversation and music in the community.

“Melbourne is such a creative and dynamic city and people can use the piano to express themselves. Some people go on ‘piano trials’ to play all the pianos they can!” Mr Jerram said.

“This project is very much a showcase of the local culture by providing a blank canvas for creativity.”

The project first came to Melbourne in 2014 and this year has more diverse locations across the CBD, Arts Precinct, and suburbs such as Cranbourne and Williamstown.

A map of the street pianos is available on www.streetpianos.com.au

Since Labor has been in power …

Since Labor has been in power …

March 20th, 2024 - Evan Mulholland
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