PIANOS FOR PEACE
SEPTEMBER 1-18
Classical composer and pianist Malek Jandali not only shares music, but his pianos as well. His nonprofit, Pianos for Peace, will host a second Atlanta festival this September to display colorfully painted pianos placed strategically throughout the city.
“Each one is a unique art masterpiece,” Jandali says about the pianos that are hand-decorated by Atlanta artists as a way to give voice to local creators.
Part-time Atlanta resident Jandali has acquired 29 pianos that were on display last year. This year, the event will feature nearly 50 pianos scattered around town at various venues, including Piedmont Park, Midtown, 10 MARTA stations and the Fox Theatre. With so many instruments to coordinate, Jandali is thankful for a partnership with the Fulton County Arts Council, which stores them before they go on display.
Jandali’s favorite piano is “Coexist” by local artist Allen London that was displayed last year in Atlantic Station. Another fan favorite, “Peace,” designed by Jandali’s wife, Yasmine, was displayed on the BeltLine at Ponce City Market. After the pianos have been enjoyed for two weeks, each will be donated to local schools, nursing homes and other community centers, where professional and amateur artists and volunteers from the organization will host concerts and continue music education. Download the Pianos for Peace app to find one near you.
STORY: Grace Huseth
