The outdoor piano is back in downtown Barrie and got some use on Saturday, much to onlookers' delight.
Donated by Forgather Floral Co. and painted by local artists Katie Green and Marlisha Lewis of Spare Room Barrie, the bright yellow piano sits at the the top of Meridian Place near Dunlop Street.
Those walking downtown on Saturday morning, before the heavy rainfall, were struck by the sounds of 14-year-old Iain Holla.
Holla is a Grade 9 student at Eastview Secondary School and has been playing piano since the age of five.
“My mom played piano a lot and I enjoyed listening and watching,” Holla told BarrieToday. “I just really wanted to learn to play it myself.”
While he was attending his piano teacher’s house for lessons, COVID-19 forced him to go online for learning.
But Holla stuck to it and continued to learn his favourites.
“I really like classical and songs from the romantic period, but I really just play a lot of different styles,” he said.
A few people would gather as Holla sat and played at the public piano, clapping when he finished a song and approaching him to commend him and thank him for playing.
Linda and Will Holla were among those sitting nearby, watching their son enjoy the public piano.
“He loves piano and has his whole life. He just finished his Grade 9 piano exam last week and still wants to play every chance,” said Will. “He sees a street piano and gets all excited, so he was a little upset during COVID when no one had theirs out.
"We were out for breakfast this morning and he saw the piano sitting here and wanted to come over.”
As parents, Linda said they have it pretty good considering when their very talented son isn’t playing piano at home, he is listening to it.
“It's very nice and relaxing. Even when he isn’t playing he is studying on YouTube to find new songs to learn,” she said. “He also plays at a retirement home for the residents and gave a concert last weekend.”
The piano is also in partnership with STEPS Public Art (I HeART Main Street Art Program). The Downtown Barrie BIA says it will be available all summer long.
