The sound of piano music is spreading positivity through the streets of downtown Penticton, thanks to a lone piano (so far) and a community of talented musicians.
Drop by the corner of Nanaimo and Main this summer for the chance to see a pop-up concert.
Local musicians are invited to tickle the ivories in their own impromptu concert. COVID-19 measures will be in place including daily cleaning of the piano keys, signage to encourage social distancing and recommendations to wash or sanitize hands before and after playing the piano.
The Piano Project in Nanaimo Square will be on-site until the end of September, weather permitting. It’s held in partnership with the Downtown Penticton Association (DPA) and the City of Penticton.
Artists from the Long Studio Gallery painted the piano over the course of a week, transforming it into a public work of art.
“This idea has been talked about for several months and has finally come to fruition, “said Penticton Bylaw Services Supervisor, Tina Siebert. “Our goal is that the piano will help build a sense of communal pride in the neighbourhood and bring some colour and positivity to downtown.”
If this initial pilot project proves successful, the City will explore options to add more pianos throughout Penticton, adding to the already successful public sculpture program.
“We have had to make many changes this year with different offerings we would normally see in the summer, such as our downtown music events,“ said Executive Director of the Downtown Penticton Association, Lynn Allin. “Bringing music back to downtown in Nanaimo Square and providing the opportunity for our local musicians and enthusiasts to share their talent is welcomed.”
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