‘Pianoman’ ready for Market

Friday 22 July 2016

Some of the Island's young creatives have been getting a special instrument ready for market today.

Members of Youth Arts Jersey have been putting the final touches to 'Pianoman' - the latest street piano in tune to hit the right notes in the Central Market.

Youth Arts Jersey's Senior Youth Worker Carmel Butel said: “The young members at Youth Arts Jersey have really enjoyed decorating a piano this year. It has been a fantastic project to get involved with and we are all delighted with the finished article.

"The young people have learnt many skills along the way and it has turned out to be a great team building experience for them all too. It was also really nice that they were given a complete free reign with the piano’s design. The original idea for ‘Pianoman’ came from 11 year old Alex Mooney.”

Jersey Street Pianos was set up by musician Martin Coxshall last year with funding from the Department of Economic Development, Tourism, Sport & Culture, the Jersey Arts Trust and a lot of support from Islanders.

Mr Coxshall said: “What passionate, talented young artists and musicians we have here in Jersey!  There were lots of great ideas and the final result is extremely impressive.  ‘Pianoman’ is going to bring a lot of joy to all that see and hear him.  I’m excited to see him in action over the summer."

As well as the Central Market, you can tickle the ivories at Elizabeth Terminal, Liberty Wharf shopping centre and St Helier's Town Hall and more pianos will soon be popping up at West Centre, Holme Grown and St Aubin's Parish Hall.

Mr Coxshall said: "Jersey Street Pianos is in its second year and some of the pianos have become an on-going year round fixture.  This year I would like to see businesses and venues taking more responsibility for the instruments care and maintenance so they can be used to enhance their spaces and our island even more.

"Feel empowered:  anyone that wants to have a beautiful public piano for their event or business can just go ahead and get on with it!  I would be pleased to offer advice about how and what to do to make it work for you.  I can also check the suitability of any instruments you are considering using.” 

Economic Development, Tourism, Sport & Culture's Assistant Minister Murray Norton said: “The pianos have such an impact on the colour and sounds of our streets, reflecting the wonderful cultural backdrop to our island. EDTSC were delighted to assist in funding the original initiative and it’s great to see them back for a second year.”