Spotlight on the #PermissionToPlay Campaign
Here at Business & Arts NL, we believe that everyone has a creative spark within them. And we all nurture that spark in different ways, whether it's through dance, writing poetry, sketching or painting, playing music or making pottery.
Our #ComePlayWithMeNL Public Piano Program strives to help ignite that spark, and bring the community together, through spontaneous musical moments.
Since launching in 2014, the program has hosted hundreds of planned and impromptu performances. We're proud of the role it's played in helping enliven public spaces and adding a bit of extra joy and happiness to people's lives.
Local musician Matthew Barrett performs at the unveiling of the Royal Inn + Suites #ComePlayWithMeNL Public Piano (painted by artist Charlene Rumbolt) at Goose Bay Airport on December 19, 2019.
Today, the program hosts nine public pianos across the province, from St. John's to Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Painted by local visual artists, debuted by local musicians and sponsored by local businesses, the pianos invite members of the public to sit and play a while, whether they're a seasoned musician or not. (Click here to see a list of our public pianos, including sponsor and artist information.)
While some might feel timid about playing in public, we want everyone to feel comfortable sharing their talents - regardless of where they are on their musical journey. And we want everyone to have fun.
That's why we're thrilled to launch our #PermissionToPlay campaign. Whether you feel like playing some old standards, or improvising some new tunes, we encourage you to explore and share your musical talents with the community. After all, there's nothing like music to help soothe and inspire.
Mick Davis entertains the crowd during the unveiling of the Cox & Palmer #ComePlayWithMeNL public piano (painted by artist Julie Lewis) at the St. John's Farmers' Market on May 25, 2019.
To help ensure the public pianos are enjoyable for all, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Be mindful of your surroundings and volume. If you're playing in a quiet area, or if people are chatting nearby, play softly or choose quieter pieces.
Be mindful of the duration of your playing if you notice someone waiting for their turn.
Be gentle with the pianos to avoid causing damage and make sure the area is tidy when you leave.
And here's Erin Lee, who recently completed an internship with Business & Arts NL (read more about Erin's experience here) with some more helpful tips.
Join us in celebrating the joy of spontaneous music-making and grant yourself the #PermissionToPlay! Share your special musical moments with us on social media by using the hashtag #ComePlayWithMeNL.
Interested in sponsoring a public piano? Contact Lynn Panting, Program Coordinator: lynn@businessandartsnl.com