Church celebrates new Grand Piano
A church's new £21,000 grand piano has been played for the first time in concert.
St Mary Magdalene Church in Bridgnorth welcomed a selection of top musicians to celebrate the landmark event.
Dr John Turnock, chairman of the St Mary Magdalene Concert Committee, said: "A small but appreciative audience enjoyed a brilliant recital.
"Tony Bridgwater demonstrated his flawless technique on the new concert grand piano at St Mary's along with virtuoso violinist Anna Downes."
The 7ft 6ins Yamaha C7 concert piano was installed in the church in East Castle Street after its former Bluthner grand piano, which was built in 1899, had been showing some signs of wear and deterioration.
For more information on events in Shropshire and the West Midlands click here[figure caption="Tony was joined by other musicians to celebrate the event.
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Dr Turnock secured grant aid from the Arts Council and raised further funds to buy the instrument.
The church also set up a music trust to teach new and emerging talent in Bridgnorth.
The next musical event at St Mary's will be an organ recital on November 1, at 3pm, by Ian Clarke, musical director of Wombourne Choral Society. Admission will be £10 on the door to include refreshments.
A lunchtime piano recital will follow on November 14, with young pupils who have reached grade eight playing the grand piano, at noon, on November 14.
Dr Turnock said: "This concert is a new opportunity to encourage young musicians to play in front of a live audience on a concert grand piano in the context of the huge church of St Mary Magdalene.
"It should inspire all up and coming musicians of all ages to play the piano.
"Oliver Clarke, a local piano teacher, will also play in the second part of this short concert for about 45 minutes."
Admission to the lunchtime concert is free with a retiring collection held in aid of young musicians.
For more information on the event click here.
