The scoop on the painted pianos popping up all over Greenville
Longing to tickle the ivories, but don’t have the space for an upright or baby grand? You’re in luck: Thanks to local nonprofit Please Play Me Pianos, painted public pianos are popping up around Greenville. With generous efforts from local artists, tuners, and hosts, the public can now make music and create smiles at multiple locations: Swamp Rabbit Cafe, Samantha Grace Designs, The Artistry Gallery, GSP International Airport, Carolina Bauernhaus, Judson Mill, and Good Art Co.—with more to come.
Anne McAneny, a lifelong pianist who took up boogie-woogie during the pandemic, is the conductor of this exciting endeavor. As Greenville’s self-proclaimed ‘crazy piano lady,’ McAneny has quickly infused fresh musical fun into the Upstate’s unique music and art scene. “It’s one thing to stumble across a public piano,” McAneny says, “but our artists make it magical. They create interactive pieces of art for the public to hear, see, touch, and play. It’s a win-win-wow for everyone who comes across these beautiful instruments.”
The program seeks out locations with heavy foot traffic, protection from the elements, and public accessibility. “These donated pianos still have music left to give,” McAneny says, “and we invite everyone to play.”
From ATL to GVL
McAneny’s Upstate program was inspired by a similar successful initiative in Atlanta
Donations are Music to out Ears
“We’re dependent on the generosity of donors and volunteers,” says McAneny. With more funding, she can add bigger pianos and support more artists.
