Bach and beyond: NYers plunk on public pianos

[June 22, 2010]  NEW YORK (AP) -- Musicians are taking advantage of public pianos that have been put near New York City landmarks and in city parks this week.

The 60 pianos were installed Monday morning at landmarks like Lincoln Center, Times Square and the Coney Island boardwalk. Pianists plunked out Bach, Elton John and Scott Joplin as small crowds gathered.

In Times Square, the music mixed in with sounds of jackhammers, honking cabs and fire truck sirens.

The pianos are part of an art installation touring the world that is making its first U.S. stop in New York. The concept has put more than 130 pianos in parks, squares and bus stations in cities from London to Sydney.

[Associated Press]

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