A new public piano in downtown Smiths Falls is already hitting the right chord with the community.
The painted piano now sits in the Parkette beside Shoppers Drug Mart, where residents and visitors can stop, play a tune and add a little music to the heart of town.
Longtime Smiths Falls councillor Jay Brennan says the idea came from the Downtown Business Association during a conversation about ways to bring more life to the Parkette.
The piano has deep local roots in Brennan’s Family.
The instrument will be known as Lou’s Piano, in honour of Brennan’s father, Lou Brennan, a pharmacist in Smiths Falls for about 40 years. Lou ran Purcell’s and Medical Pharmacy behind the library before retiring.
Brennan says the piano once filled his family home with music, singalongs and memories. Now, it is ready for an encore downtown.
The Downtown Business Association had the piano painted to match the bright feel of the Parkette, and Brennan says it has already become a small but mighty community attraction.
Brennan says seeing people play the piano has been emotional, especially knowing his family’s instrument is now helping bring people together.
For Smiths Falls, Lou’s Piano is more than a pretty key feature. It is history, art and community spirit — all in perfect harmony.
Listen to Bob’s complete chat with Jay below.
Jay Brennan and Bob Perreault meet at Lou’s Piano
