By the time that this post is read, the pianos will be gone from New York City until next June. However, in keeping with the theme of We are the World Blogfest, which is to spread light over the dark of the world, this initiative was too good not to share.
There are many signs that summer’s practically upon New York City, but one of the most colorful — and creative — is the annual roll out of the Sing for Hope Pianos, which can now be found at dozens of locations across the five boroughs.
This year, Sing for Hope partnered with Mini USA for the installation, which began Monday and continues through June 24 and welcomes anyone and everyone to sit down and tickle ivories that have been painted by a diverse mix of artists. The automaker even created a unique piano-on-wheels by outfitting a Mini Countryman with a keyboard, sound system and vibrant exterior.
“We founded Sing for Hope with one goal: Making the arts accessible to everyone in every community. The arts enable neighborhoods to thrive by positively impacting those who live there and enriching the community as a whole,” Sing for Hope founders Monica Yunus and Camille Zamora said in a statement. “These 51 one-of-a-kind Sing for Hope Pianos will not only provide music for three weeks in June; they will also, in alignment with our mission, serve 15,000 New York City students annually after the pianos are delivered to their permanent homes at our ‘Citizen Artist Schools,’ sparking inspiration as a tool for future artists for years to come.”
Follow THIS LINK for more information and a musical news report from CBS.
The “We are the World” Blogfest is in its second year of a heartfelt journey. This blogfest’s goal is to spread the message of light, hope and love in today’s world. We are challenging all participants to share the positive side of humanity. This month’s co-hosts, Simon Falk, Mary J Giese, Dan Antion, Shilpa Garg and Damyanti Biswas, welcome participants and encourage all to join in during future months. #WATWB is a blog hop on the last Friday of every month. Click HERE to check out the intention and rules of the blogfest and feel free to sign up at any time. You are always welcome!
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Mary J Melange 
This is such a great program. Anything that brings people together, even for a few minutes, is a good thing. Anything that reminds us that we are all the same, is important. The added benefit of giving pianos to needed students is a wonderful bonus. Thanks for sharing this.
I can imagine nothing but smiles on the faces of the people that surrounded those pianos. And maybe some off-key singing. 😉
Well that’s just charming! Thanks for sharing that!
You’re welcome, Joey!
I had never heard of this program before. Just the name, “Sing for Hope,” makes me happy. How wonderful! We need more of this stuff!
I hadn’t heard of this either, until I saw it on the news. It’s such a positive initiative and great example of how a community can engage with and give back to its citizens. Yes, we need more of this!
I got what you mean , appreciate it for putting up.Woh I am happy to find this website through google. “Wisdom doesn’t necessarily come with age. Sometimes age just shows up by itself.” by Woodrow Wilson.
What a heart-warming and far-reaching story. I love the idea of public art, public music, and opportunities for community connection, but then to donate the pianos to schools is simply fabulous. Wonderful share – and thanks for co-hosting this month.
You’re welcome, Deborah. I’m happy to share the positives in the US and elsewhere, especially the positives that give back to the community.
Hi Mary – this is a lovely idea to be rolled out in NYC each year – when talented musicians can sit and play their music, others can join in … and give uplifting thoughts to our brains – when they all join in. Wonderful to read about … cheers Hilary
Thanks Hilary. If I lived in NYC, I would definitely go in search of the pianos. It makes me smile just thinking about the music, singing and happy spirits.
Sounds lovely – the sound draws us in … we have one that was put outside an antique/junk shop in the middle of town (tiny place relatively!) here (Duncan on Van Island, BC) … and the homeless man plays his heart out and gets money in his bucket … when I hear his tinkling I walk on by listening happily and drop my $s in too … happy spirits as you say … cheers Hilary
I love the idea. So thoughtful and uplifting.
Absolutely!
What a cool program! With arts programs missing in many schools now, making pianos more accessible is great. Thanks for sharing, Mary.
You’re welcome, Emily. The world is a better place with the arts…it’s a positive and healthy addition to life, especially when it’s given away freely.
Lovely initiative … giving voice, singing along – bringing people together. Thanks Mary! I’m smiling!
This is yet another example of people helping people in community…and a reason for you to smile! 🙂