Hidden Harmonies

I am away from Brown's campus this semester for my dissertation research, and so the next set of posts will feature photos, videos, and reflections by other Brown students who are checking in on the piano this spring.

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This week's visit and reflection is from Allyson Chen ('27):

"I’ve played the piano since I was young, which drew me to this piano, which has been sitting outside for so long.

Since I last visited last semester in the winter, the piano seems to be more vibrant, maybe because of the warm weather. I can hear more of the white keys than last time. I like the location of the piano because it is secluded within trees, despite being right next to the road. I like how it is removed from the rest of campus. I have walked by that exact spot many times in the past without noticing the piano, and I’m sure others who frequent Morrison-gerard or Grant recital hall don’t notice it either.

The weather was really nice today, which made me feel tranquil and at peace. I liked seeing the wood on top of the piano, where it warped due to moisture and rain. Last time I was there, someone talked about animals or life possibly being sustained by the decaying piano. I checked for bugs or little creatures like squirrels but didn’t find any."

Days in place: 755

Weather: sunny, 50°F

All photos and videos by Allyson Chen