CHAMBLEE, Ga. — A Georgia nonprofit charity is set to unveil its latest public piano installation at a Chamblee trail in December, according to a press release from the organization.
Play Me Again Pianos said people can gather on Saturday at the Chamblee Rail Trail to hear the harmonious keys of the new piano, dubbed "Max," on December 2 at 2 p.m.
The nonprofit is known for its mission to install and maintain 88 free public pianos across metro Atlanta. It views these musical installations as catalysts for fostering connections within communities.
"Public pianos inspire people to connect with each other in ways that were once common but seem increasingly rare," Jason Brett, the organization's co-founder, said. "By adding our pianos to the landscape throughout the metropolitan area, we hope to nurture that connection into an evolution of Atlanta’s culture, community, and the arts."
The artistic aesthetic of "Max" comes from the vision of multimedia artist Phillip Clark, a Chamblee resident. Clark, whose work merges graphic design and traditional art, said he wanted to transform musical notes into colors.
"Max is a celebration of sound and sight," Clark said.
This new piano installation, "Max," replaces its predecessor, "Irving," which graced the Rail Trail from April 2019 until its retirement in October 2023.
"We're immensely grateful to Play Me Again Pianos and Artist Phillip Clark for their generous contributions to the City of Chamblee," Teneisha Jones, Chamblee Public Arts Coordinator, said. "We know that this project will bring joy to those who use the Rail Trail and will serve as a reminder that music and art are essential elements of our vibrant community."
The city boasts a second public piano inside the Plaza Fiesta - Indoor Latin Mall, and other installations by Play Me Again Pianos can be found at various locations, including:
- The Chastain Arts Center,
- The Woodruff Arts Center,
- Ponce City Market,
- Atlantic Station,
- The Alpharetta Arts Center
- And East Cobb, Roswell and Serenbe Art Farm communities
With the scarcity of home pianos, public access to these musical instruments uplifts entire communities, the organization says, and since the COVID-19 pandemic, Play Me Again Pianos has had bad challenges with reduced donations.
"Contributions right now can make the difference between a charity surviving or closing its doors," the organization said. "If you love the thought of having pianos available to the public in your city, please donate today, while it’s on your mind. It’s never been needed more."
For those interested in volunteer opportunities, understanding the impact of Play Me Again Pianos, or making a donation, visit the website here.
