Nominations Open for Pop-Up Piano: Bring Music to Your Town

Nominations are now open for the opportunity to bring the joy of music to your town through the introduction of a Pop-Up Piano. In a collaboration between ABC and Piano Plus Australia, up to 20 pre-loved pianos, generously donated by various entities and individuals, will find new homes in towns across the country. This initiative, coinciding with the year of the Piano and the launch of the ABC series “The Piano,” aims to foster community engagement by placing these beloved instruments in public spaces.

Individuals are encouraged to identify suitable locations in their local areas where a piano could enhance the cultural landscape and create opportunities for musical expression. The goal is to unite people through the universal language of music while increasing accessibility to the enchanting world of piano music.

Nominations officially opened on March 29, 2025, providing communities with the chance to participate in this exciting project. The submission period will remain active until April 20, after which a selection panel will meticulously assess all entries to determine the winning towns. The successful recipients will be unveiled during the Classic 100 in Concert on June 21, promising an event not to be missed by music enthusiasts.

In the interim, as towns await the outcome of their nominations, they are encouraged to explore the teaser for the upcoming ABC series, “The Piano.” This show showcases everyday pianists as they perform in bustling locations throughout Australia, offering a unique musical experience. Scheduled to premiere on ABC iview from May 4, the series promises to captivate audiences with its celebration of piano music.

Furthermore, music lovers can prepare for the Classic 100: Piano voting, scheduled to commence in May. By subscribing to the ABC Classic Newsletter, participants can receive timely updates on when the voting process begins. The culmination of this musical journey will be the Classic 100 countdown on June 7 and 8, broadcasted on ABC Classic and the ABC listen app, revealing Australia’s favorite piano compositions.

This initiative not only celebrates the rich heritage of piano music but also seeks to democratize access to these instruments, promoting cultural enrichment and community cohesion. By bringing the melodious sounds of pianos to the heart of towns and cities, the Pop-Up Piano project heralds a harmonious blend of music and public engagement.