Piano Maestro Serenades Tasmania’s Scenic Beauty

A mesmerizing tale unfolds as Kevin Smith, a 45-year-old piano enthusiast from Margate, Tasmania, found his passion reignited by the captivating melody from Jane Champion’s film, The Piano, back in 2016. The haunting notes of the soundtrack song, Heart Asks Pleasure First, lingered in his mind, prompting him to delve back into the world of piano playing.

Having dabbled in piano lessons during his youth but later losing interest, the film served as a catalyst for Smith to pick up the instrument once more. Acquiring the sheet music for the alluring piece, he dedicated countless hours to practicing on his family piano, much to the amusement of his wife and children, who initially met his musical endeavors with skepticism.

Despite initial struggles and familial eye-rolls, Smith’s perseverance paid off as he mastered Heart Asks Pleasure First after months of diligent practice. This success spurred him to explore other musical pieces and eventually led him to secure a paid gig at a local hotel, marking the beginning of his musical journey across Tasmania.

In a serendipitous turn of events, a friend offered Smith the opportunity to play on a grand piano overlooking Kingston Beach, igniting a desire within him to share his music in scenic locations across Tasmania. This aspiration materialized when he set up his piano on Kingston Beach in December 2019, drawing a captivated audience and spreading joy through his melodies.

Embracing the enchanting landscapes of Tasmania as his stage, Smith established a Facebook page, A Piano Of Tasmania, to document his musical escapades and engage with his growing audience. His performances transcended conventional venues, with notable highlights including playing atop the Gordon Dam wall and a crane suspended 30 meters above ground on the Hobart waterfront during the Hobart Airport Marathon.

Each performance became a unique experience, with Smith’s music resonating with spectators and creating unforgettable moments against the backdrop of Tasmania’s natural beauty. As his musical odyssey continues to unfold, Smith remains committed to sharing his gift with the people of Tasmania, enriching lives through the harmonious notes that echo through the island’s picturesque landscapes.