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Giant Piano Sculpture Inspires Musical Dreams
8 Jun
Summary
- A 9-foot-tall playable sculpture made from five pianos was unveiled.
- The art piece is part of the 'Key Changes' project by Gina Bachauer Foundation.
- It is accessible to all ages until Labor Day weekend and aims to inspire music.
A monumental playable art sculpture, standing 9 feet tall and 13 feet wide and constructed from five pianos, has been installed downtown. Designed by Ogden-based artist Jason Manley, the piece celebrates the piano ahead of the 2026 Bachauer International Piano Competition. This interactive sculpture, a new form of the 'Key Changes' art project, is open to the public for viewing and playing until Labor Day weekend.
The Gina Bachauer International Piano Foundation and The Blocks collaborated on this initiative, aiming to enrich the downtown arts and culture scene. The installation on Friday included a performance by Utah pianist Bennett Larsen. This event precedes the major competition, which will host 56 pianists aged 11-18 from Utah and 14 other countries between June 14 and June 27.
Previous iterations of 'Key Changes,' featuring uniquely designed pianos, have successfully inspired musical learning. One notable instance involved a resident learning to tune pianos via online tutorials and subsequently receiving a donated piano. Organizers hope this new sculpture will similarly foster a love for music and encourage the acquisition of new musical skills among visitors.
The competition and the art piece are intended to boost activity west of Main Street, particularly during the Delta Center's renovation. This effort contributes to the downtown ecosystem by providing engaging activities. Expert pianists are scheduled for additional performances on the plaza on July 10 and August 14.
