It’s not every day that you see a concert piano at a Northern Ireland train or bus station.
But as part of a region-wide search, Translink is on the lookout for a star pianist to perform at a special show this autumn.
Belfast Grand Central Station took delivery of the majestic instrument today as Translink invites amateur pianists of all levels and ages to participate in its Grand Pianist competition.
Heats will take place across Northern Ireland as part of a roadshow, with the concert piano travelling to five rail and bus stations this month and next ahead of the grand final at the new station in Belfast.
The Grand Pianist roadshow will call at Lanyon Place, Belfast; Newry Bus Station; North-West Transport Hub, Derry/Londonderry; Bangor Train Station and Coleraine Train Station, where people are being encouraged to play on the concert piano and register for the regional heats.
Translink Group chief executive Chris Conway, Grand Pianist head judge Matthew Owens, Scarlett Hutchinson, Robyn English
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Translink Group chief executive Chris Conway said the competition’s principal aim was to connect people through music.
“We would love everyone to get involved, whether by entering one of the regional heats or supporting someone playing the piano when you’re passing by,” he said.
“We hope the Grand Pianist will brighten passengers’ journeys, as well as uncover local talent to help us celebrate Belfast Grand Central Station which, beyond transport, will ensure Northern Ireland is better connected today and for future generations.”
Professional musician Matthew Owens, who has over 30 years of experience in the industry as a conductor, composer, pianist, and organist, has been chosen by Translink as head judge.
He will travel around Northern Ireland in search of talented pianists worthy of a place in the grand final, where he will be joined by special guest judges to choose the overall winner.
“I can’t wait to start the search for local, talented pianists,” he said.
“It’s fantastic to see Translink support the arts sector by providing a platform for people to perform in front of an audience in the spectacular surroundings of the new transport hub.”
Details of the roadshow timetable, as well as dates and times for regional heats, can be found at https://www.translink.co.uk/betterconnected/grandpianist