Keys, community and care: A day that filled the church

We ended January by filling St Paul Old Ford Church with continuous piano music from 10am to 10pm.

Pianists took turns at the keys throughout the day, filling the space with music, generosity and care. Some played briefly, others stayed longer, but every contribution helped create a shared moment - and raise over £2,700 for the charity! 

We heard a full range of classical, jazz, reggae and contemporary music from pianists of all stripes. We also had performances from those ranging in age from the very first years of their lives and musical journeys, to those who are, let’s say, more seasoned artistes.  

We were thrilled to have a performance from Clifford Slapper, who has performed, toured and recorded with stars including David Bowie, Boy George, Jarvis Cocker, Lisa Stansfield, Suggs (Madness), Marc Almond, Ute Lemper, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and many others.

Further highlights included performances of original music from Philippa Ghosh, pianist and composer Dave Smith, who you can hear here performing at Cafe Oto, and David Earl, whose music you can explore here.

In the evening local pianist, singer and composer Alice Offley stopped by to liven us up, in-between a studio recording session and a live gig later that night. Her bright-eyed performance kicked off an upbeat, relaxed vibe for the evening, followed by conservatoire-trained pianist and singer-songwriter Myles Lavelle Golding, whose soulful music was a real hit. Pete Cattermoul helped conclude the night with a broad performance which was expansive, warm and full of personality, before event organiser Aryamanas closed with ‘Blossom in the Stream’ written in memory of Sraddhapuspa, one of GCP’s co-founders who died in 2020.

Pianists and audience members were powered through the day by generous donations from Mandala Cafe, Somewhere Green and Quarantacinque, who provided classy snacks and pastries to fuel up those fingers.

We want to say a big heartfelt thank you to all the pianists who gave their time and talent, to everyone who came along to listen, support and donate, and to the cafes who kindly sponsored and supported the event.