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May 24 Open-air pianos strike a chord as Murcia's local talent gets its moment in the spotlight
Reminiscent of Channel 4’s The Piano, grand pianos will appear across Murcia on Saturday May 24 for a day of free public performances
Murcia is striking a chord this spring with the return of Pianos en la Calle, a day-long celebration of music that will see grand pianos placed in five of the city’s most recognisable public spaces. The event, now a firm favourite in the local cultural calendar, takes place on Saturday May 24 and encourages pianists of all levels to take part.Across the day, three grand pianos will be available for public use in Plaza del Cardenal Belluga, Paseo Alfonso X El Sabio, and Avenida de la Libertad. Participants who have registered in advance via pianosenlacalle.com can perform between 12.00pm and 2.00pm and again from 4.00pm to 8.00pm. The pianos are being provided by Klavier.
In a move that echoes the format of Channel 4’s much-loved series The Piano, where members of the public play in railway stations to unsuspecting crowds, Murcia’s version opens up the streets to showcase everyday talent. However, this event isn’t a competition - just a celebration of music in open spaces.
For the first time, Pianos en la Calle will also extend beyond the city centre, with pianos set up in Beniaján’s Plaza del Instituto and Guadalupe’s Parque de la Libertad. Local residents can drop in and play during the same hours, with in-person registration available at each district’s cultural centre.
Councillor for Culture and Identity, Diego Avilés, said: “Promoting and supporting emerging talent is central to our cultural programme. This initiative allows us to enjoy music and creativity in some of the most beautiful spots in our city.”
The day will round off with two public concerts on Paseo Alfonso X El Sabio. From 7.00pm, students from the Murcia Conservatory of Music will perform, followed at 9.00pm by the 12 finalists from the 10th International Piano Competition, which runs in the city from May 23 to 25.
“This year’s performers will be paying tribute to Murcia’s 1,200th anniversary,” added Councillor Jesús Pacheco. “We’ll have twelve great pianists - one for every century.”
With performances free to watch and the chance to play in such iconic locations, Pianos en la Calle promises to bring a little magic to Murcia this May.
Image: Meleto Records/Pexels
