In Collingwood, the key to the city is C major.
At least it will be for the rest of the summer when the street pianos return this weekend for the Keys to Collingwood Festival.
The pianos will be back on Saturday, Aug. 4, and their return will be marked by 50 hours of music as twelve musicians are scheduled to tickle the ivories for launch weekend.
The music plays Aug. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Aug. 5 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This year, the pianos will not only play a tune, but tell a story - Collingwood’s story. The street pianos will be painted with iconic Collingwood images to commemorate the community’s history in celebration of its 160th birthday.
If fine detail isn’t your thing, there’s still a piano for you. The Monster Ground Foot Piano will be back outside Collingwood Town Hall. Dance the day away and make your own music while you do.
Piano talks are also back this year. At 10 a.m. on Thursdays in August, there will be a free walking tour to all of the street pianos. A guide will share the tale of the town’s historic buildings and local legends. Serenades can be expected. To participate in the tour, meet at town hall at 9:50 a.m. any Thursday in August following the long weekend.
The pianos will remain on the street for the month of August and free play is encouraged. Improvise your way to a viral video, work on those scales or break out the classic “Chopsticks.”
Pia-No budding musician will be turned away.
For a complete lineup of performers, bios and piano locations, click here.
Having fun on a street piano this weekend or next week? Send your photos to CollingwoodToday by email here.
