Pianos In The Wild!

Four pianos will be placed in public spaces for the next six weeks for passersby to enjoy.

‘Pianos In The Wild!’ is a collaboration between Rotorua District Council (RDC) and Pheasant Plucker owner Ivan Purvis that allows people to sit down and play or listen to pianos at various city locations.

RDC community arts officer Kiri Jarden says the project is inspired by artist Luke Jarram’s ‘Play Me, I’m Yours’ installation which saw up to 30 pianos deposited in public spaces around the world as part of arts festivals.

“Jarram’s provoking work questions the ownership and rules of public space, inviting the public to engage with, activate, and take ownership of their urban environment.

“We’re delighted he has given the nod for a smaller scale reproduction of the project here in Rotorua at some great locations around the CBD. This is a first for New Zealand.”

Pianos will be located at Jean Batten Square, City Focus, Eat Street, the corner of Tutanekai and Arawa streets and the Lakefront from Friday [26 March].

Pianos In The Wild! is sponsored by local Speedy Signs, Bunnings, U Drive Truck Rentals, Brian Holden, and The Piano Shop in Wellington.