New piano at the Port Authority Bus Terminal is music to the ears of commuters
MIDTOWN, Manhattan (WABC) -- A new feature at the Port Authority Bus Terminal has been music to the ears of commuters who pass through each day.
A piano from the Sing for Hope organization is meant to liven up their day and transform their lives through music.
The commute for most is sheer drudgery, but add in a little piano-playing, and suddenly rush hour isn't just about the rush.
The piano installed by Sing for Hope Wednesday provides a little melody to the daily grind.
"This is actually the 338th piano that we've placed in New York City," said Camille Zamora, who co-founded the non-profit ten years ago.
Donated pianos are temporarily parked throughout the city and then permanently given to schools and hospitals.
This time the piano will stay put at the Port Authority.
"It allows strangers to share a moment of commonality and we really believe that kind of harmony is incredibly important," said Zamora. "I think we're seeing that we need those ways to connect as people."
The brightly painted piano sits on a balcony that wasn't being used. Volunteers will play it during the commute on Wednesdays and Fridays.
"It stopped me and I said where is this coming from, and I wanted to get closer," said one commuter. "I hope it brings people to a better place and helps them think about just being calm and cool, especially in this time and energy when we're feeling so heated and negative, I think it's good."
It's the kind of thing that gives pause during the frenzy.
"I had to stop and listen for awhile, it was beautiful," another commuter said. ("Change your mood a little bit?", we asked.) "Absolutely," he said.
"If you can help one person have a better day, it's a good day," said Port Authority general manager Diannae Ehler.
If you're interested in playing the piano you can sign up and volunteer. You won't get paid, but the thanks come from the smiles of commuters.
For more information, visit: http://www.singforhope.org/what-you-can-do/volunteer/
