What do a cheerful undertaker, a drag Tori Amos tribute act, a 92-year-old carer and a blind teenage girl have in common? The clue’s in the title of the show in which they all appear: The Piano. Truly, all human life is here. And, it turns out, all of them can tinkle the ivories in spectacular style.
The new Channel 4 contest from the makers of The Great British Bake Off is a search for undiscovered keyboard talent which taps into the “street piano” phenomenon. Over the past decade, come-and-have-a-go instruments have sprung up in stations, shopping centres and other public spaces. Passers-by are encouraged to either sit down and play, or stop and listen. Smiling crowds, jolly commutes and viral videos have resulted.
