Creative Partnership Connects the Community with Music, Art, Creativity, and Joy

A musical movement is taking place in Newport News thanks to a unique partnership between the city, Christopher Newport University's (CNU) Ferguson Center for the Arts, the Mary M. Torggler Fine Arts Center, and global nonprofit Sing for Hope. As part of this innovative initiative, pianos were painted by local artists and will be placed at sites across Newport News, creating spontaneous moments of live music and joy throughout the community. This is the first time this program has come to the region.

"The City of Newport News is proud to partner with Sing for Hope and Christopher Newport University to bring this program to life," said Joanne Palmeira, Superintendent of Cultural Arts. "We are always looking for unique opportunities to connect residents and guests with the arts. As these pianos are placed in Newport News parks, attractions, and other high-traffic areas, we know they will create discussion among diverse groups and harness the creative power of our community."

On Thursday, March 28 at 9 a.m., 10 artistic and playable Sing for Hope pianos will go on display in the Ferguson Center's Diamonstein Concert Hall lobby. The all-day public launch is free and open to all, and will culminate with a free performance by acclaimed American pianist Drew Petersen at 7:30 p.m. The celebration coincides with World Piano Day, which is the 88^th day of the year and a nod to the 88 keys on the piano.

"We believe in the transformative power of the arts, and Sing for Hope aligns perfectly with our commitment to arts for all," said Bruce Bronstein, Ferguson Center Executive Director. "I can't wait to see and hear the pianos in public. They are for everyone to play and enjoy, from Chopsticks to Chopin!"

After the day-long launch event on March 28, the Sing for Hope pianos will move to iconic locations across Newport News for all to play, listen to, and interact with through April 18. Locations include Victory Landing Park, City Hall Plaza, Newport News Park, Midtown Community Center, The Mariners' Museum and Park, Riverview Farm Park, City Center Gazebo, CNU Fountain Plaza, Patrick Henry Mall, and the Denbigh Community Center. At the conclusion of their public residency, the Sing for Hope pianos will be moved to permanent homes in seven Newport News public schools and three community centers, including Denbigh Community Center, Brittingham-Midtown Community Center, and Courthouse Way Community Center, where they may inspire lives for years to come.

"Expanding The Sing for Hope pianos to reach more communities has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I am encouraged by the passion and talent of the artists who did such incredible work in Virginia," said Monica Yunus, Co-Founder of Sing for Hope.

The global leader in public piano art programs, Sing for Hope has provided more pianos for under-resourced public schools than any other organization in the world. The program began in New York City in 2010 and has since grown to become one of the largest annually recurring public arts initiatives. With more than 600 original creations to date, Sing for Hope brings hope, healing, and a shared musical experience to communities across the globe. For more information, visit www.SingforHope.org.