When
19th June-13th July 2009
Where
Locations across London
The Street Pianos London event is an innovative and highly original project that's a must for music-lovers across the capital. Thirty pianos have been placed in public spaces across the capital so that you can play, sing along or simply join in the spontaneous knees-up.
Play Me I’m YoursArtist Luke Jerram is behind the Street Pianos London event which is also part of the City of London Festival. Part urban art event, part spontaneous live music recital, make sure that you take the Play Me, I’m Yours writing on the pianos to heart and get stuck in. Who knew that public spaces could be so much fun?
Open Air SpectacleThe locations for the pianos include some really iconic spots and as the majority are placed in outdoor locations, keep your eyes peeled as you're walking around the capital. The Street Pianos London event is totally free even rain won't stop play - each piano comes with its own laminated songbook for aspiring pianists to use. With sing-along favourites such as Hey Jude on the play list, get ready for some memorable moments. Whilst hearing music as you travel to and from work on the Tube is part of everyday life, if you manage to spot one of the pianos on a street corner, in a train station or in one of a number of iconic public spaces, don't let the unique opportunity to enjoy and take part in a public music event pass you by.
You Got The LookEach of the thirty pianos has been painted by an artist to identify them with the area that they’ve been placed in. With locations as varied as the Bank of England, Leicester Square and Portobello Road, the themes that have inspired the art work range from the theatrical to the financial.
Jools RulesNot only are members of the public encouraged to get involved with the Street Pianos London event but famous musicians like Jools Holland are giving impromptu performances. So, not only can you have a go yourself but you may also end up watching a spur of the moment, world class, alfresco gig for free too.
North London Knees Up LocationsIf you're shopping around Oxford Street, Carnaby Street or Portobello Road market, or taking a stroll around Soho Square and Leicester Square, you may well hear the tinkling of the ivories as there are pianos at each of these famous stretches. Culture vultures may also come across the sound of a knees up at the British Library or the Natural History Museum. The fun is not just confined to central spots though, there are pianos at Lyric Square, Hammersmith, Church Street Market, Harrow Road and Westbourne Grove.
Spot Pianos in the SouthThe capital's North-South divide has never been more evident. South of the river, you will have to venture to Camberwell Green, the Southwark Park Bandstand or Tate Britain to be in with a chance of spotting one of the pianos.
Festival FeverFifteen of the pianos with City postcodes are being promoted as part of The City of London festival. This means that the Street Pianos London event is in good company alongside some world-class performers including pianist Katrine Gislinge who has worked with international artists such as cellist Jian Wang. The pianos in the The City are spread all the way from Devonshire Square and Smithfield Market to Liverpool Street, Leadenhall Market, London Wall and Millennium Bridge. Music will also be in the air at the following places: Old Jewry, Paternoster Square, Royal Exchange Buildings, St Bride's, St Paul's Cathedral, St Mary Axe, St Mary Aldermary and St Mary-le-Bow.
The Street Pianos London event takes place across the capital from 19th June-13th July 2009.