Posted on 11th Oct
Mansfield is to host a record-breaking musical event — and pianists are being urged to take part.
Sherwood Phoenix Pianos in the town is hosting 101 Pianos, when 101 pianists will play together, raising money for a community piano to be installed in Newark Parish Church.
It is believed the piano orchestra, which will play for 90 minutes, will be the largest ever in the UK.
Stephen Pringle, founder of Sherwood Phoenix on Rosemary Street, studied piano restoration at Newark College
Organisers said: “This event is about more than breaking records.
“Players are welcome to fundraise towards the Newark community piano or for their own chosen cause or just come along and play. No fundraising is required.
“Come and join other piano fans in a unique opportunity to break a local and UK record. We have 101 pianos ready and are offering pianists this one-off chance to play these instruments together in a piano orchestra.”
The pianists will perform two pieces together — Prelude in C/Ave Maria by Bach / Gounod and In the Hall of the Mountain King by Grieg. Sheet music for beginners through to those at grade 8 is available on the event website.
Organisers say the piano for the community of Newark would be for the benefit of learners, performers, and audiences alike.
Following the restoration work phase of the Reawakening of St Mary Magdalene project, it would be housed in St Mary’s when the church reopens.
Coun Rowan Cozens, deputy leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council and portfolio holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts said: “After our Alive With Music launch earlier this year, and the feedback we received, it is very apparent that music and music-making is important to people across our district. People use it to get together, to feel better, and to share joy.
“This fantastic community event will bring together like-minded individuals, giving them time to focus on the beauty of music and the many wellbeing benefits that it brings.
“It will also provide an opportunity to shine a light on the creative sector and the incredible impact that music has on lives as well as fundraising to acquire a high-quality piano for the community of Newark.
“Stephen Pringle has gone on to have a very successful business that sends pianos all over the UK and beyond. I am delighted to be working alongside him on this incredible event.”
101 Pianos will run on Saturday, 22nd November, from 10am to 11.30am, at Sherwood Phoenix Pianos on Rosemary Street. To book a place to play one of the 101 pianos, go to www.101pianos.co.uk
