There's a piano in the atrium of Southmead Hospital.

[avevale_intelligencer]

It has a sign in front of it saying "Can you play the piano? Be a volunteer pianist! Contact Ruth Sidgwick" and there's a phone number.

If we lived in Bristol, or if Southmead Hospital were closer, I would be so there. There are few things I'll do for nothing, but playing music is about three of them. And let's be honest, that's about what my piano playing is worth.

Anyway. Yesterday afternoon, as I passed through on my way home, it was open and untenanted, and I was tempted and I fell. I had a little noodle, finishing with Sam's Song in the traditional manner, and as I started to get up a lady passing called out "don't stop." Or it might have been "don't! Stop!" I can't be sure. Anyway, I did a little bit more, but the first part of Changing Lives defeated me, and so I decided I had been right the first time and wended my way.

Today the piano was covered up.

I hope I haven't offended the authorities by playing when I wasn't on a list or something.

Comments

[wyld-dandelyon.livejournal.com]

You could ask about it.

[eintx.livejournal.com]

Trust me - as someone who comes through St. Pancras Station several times a year I can assure you that you are far too modest about your piano playing! :)

Anyway, I'm glad you found some time to play music.
Who cares if you offended the authorities - you'll never see them again, hopefully, once this is over!

[dickgloucester.livejournal.com]

It always makes me happy when people play public pianos. They're sharing something - even if they're not talented, they're sharing a pleasure in music, a part of their journey to get better, a desire to connect with people even if they're not very good at talking to them... Something. And of course, there ARE a lot of pretty decent pianists out there.

[lexin.livejournal.com]

Could you perhaps leave a note on the piano asking about it?