Pictured left-right: Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive; Matthew Owens, The GRAND Pianist Head Judge; Scarlett Hutchinson; Robyn English.
If you’ve ever watched popular talent show ‘The Piano’ or dreamed of dazzling a crowd with your command of the 88 black and white keys…now is your big chance.
Translink is calling pianists across Northern Ireland to compete for the opportunity to perform at Belfast Grand Central Station this autumn.
‘The GRAND Pianist’ competition, open to all amateur players of any age and ability, has seen heats happening across Northern Ireland, as part of a regional roadshow, with the final heat set to take place in Coleraine!
A concert piano has been travelling to five rail and bus stations throughout August and September, ahead of the Grand Final at the new, world-class station in Belfast.
‘The Grand Pianist’ roadshow has already stopped at Lanyon Place, Belfast; Newry Bus Station; North-West Transport Hub, Derry~Londonderry; Bangor Train Station and on Saturday (7th September) it will arrive in Coleraine Train Station, where people are encouraged to play on the concert piano and register for the regional heats.
The regional heat will take place in Coleraine Train Station on Thursday 12th September, between 4.30pm-6.30pm!
Following the final heat the piano will depart Coleraine on Friday 13th September.
Shortlisted finalists will be required to perform at the Grand Final at Belfast Grand Central Station this autumn (date to be confirmed). Finalists may be asked to take part in media promotion and social media activity around the competition.
Leading professional musician, Matthew Owens – who has over 30 years’ experience in the music industry as a conductor, composer, pianist, and organist – has been chosen by Translink as ‘The GRAND Pianist’ Head Judge.
Matthew has been travelling the length and breadth of Northern Ireland in search of talented local pianists worthy of a place at the Grand Final, where he will be joined by special guest judges to decide on the overall winner.
Speaking at the launch of the competition, Translink Group Chief Executive, Chris Conway said its principal aim was to connect people through music.
“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.
“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.”
Judge Matthew Owens added:
“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.”
Translink is encouraging passengers and members of the public to use the piano while it’s situated in their local station (check out the ‘play me’ signs), whether it’s to share their musical talent, ingenuity, make an attempt to go viral on social media or to simply have fun and share memorable experiences with friends and family as well as fellow passengers and commuters.
Shortlisting for the Grand Final will take place at each regional heat, scheduled while the piano is situated in each station.
The competition is open to people of all ages and abilities, and regional heat entrants may play a piece or genre of their choosing, provided it is no longer than three minutes. Judging criteria includes technical ability and creativity, as well as passion and ability to deliver a memorable performance.
Click here for more information and to register to take part in the Coleraine regional heat on Thursday 12th September!