Inspired by Iowa City’s “Tickle My Keys” project, MIDWESTIX and a motley band of fellow music lovers endeavored to bring together partners in Des Moines to place public pianos throughout the Des Moines metro from May-October as “CITY SOUNDS: Des Moines Public Piano Project.”
Since our first season in 2015 City Sounds has become a leader in activating public and accessible private space with music to connect humans, build community and revitalize land. Our project also realized the following benefits-
Increased traffic to a specific location:
Facilitators in other communities have indicated these pianos are a magnet for traffic and often times help sponsoring businesses draw people into their businesses or bring people into parts of the city that need more pedestrian traffic. They also can provide ongoing marketing benefit to sponsoring businesses as they act as a completely unique “billboard” of sorts. Continuing to build on our reputation as a city with the highest quality of life and support for the arts:
These pianos not only speak with music but their mere presence lets natives and visitors alike know that they are in a place that values the power and beauty of the arts. This project is a perfect complement to the commitment our city has already made to public visual art. Filling our environment with the beauty of music:
Music is a source of happiness and serenity for most people. This power is magnified amongst the hustle and bustle of an urban core. Encouraging interactive relationships with citizens and visitors:
The pianos offer an instant and accessible way for music lovers to engage within the community. Whether you are playing the instrument or listening to it being played, both actions allow for our community to come together spontaneously around music. Partners:
https://citysoundsdsm.org/partners
To get involved or find out more about our project visit our website at:
https://citysoundsdsm.org
