A video of two boys playing a local piano at Westfield Woden has gone viral, amassing over 550,000 views on social media. Photo: Holly Winchester.
A video of young performers playing a public piano at Westfield Woden has attracted over 500,000 views online. It has sparked the question: should there be more public instruments available around Canberra?
Holly Winchester, who recorded the video, said she was overjoyed to be sitting next to the piano when the two boys started playing a classical piece.
She admitted that while she normally expects teenagers in malls to cause a commotion, she was blown away by the talent of the person playing.
“There were two young boys at Woden tonight, not on e-bikes or scooters, not causing trouble, but sitting at the public piano, filling the mall with beautiful music,” she said.
“Thank you both for letting me film and share your talent.
“You were an absolute joy to listen to, and your parents should be incredibly proud. Sometimes just a simple moment can restore your faith in the next generation.”
Her video of the pair went viral, attracting over 550,000 views on Facebook alone, receiving over 14,000 likes.
Others shared Holly’s opinion of the public piano, with many believing instruments like the one at Westfield Woden should be more common places.
“I see kiddos on here frequently — there are tonnes of wonderful teens out there, and the majority of them are beautiful humans just wanting connection,” said regular Woden shopper Jessica McEwan.
“Thanks for sharing the moment. I’ve never seen that piano played well before. I hope more people use it to practice,” Ginger Rogers said.
Westfield Woden responded to the video’s virality, stating that it is proud to offer a resource that people can play and enjoy.
“We’re always looking for ways to create spaces where people can connect and spend time together at Westfield Woden, and it’s been great to see customers enjoying our piano and making it part of their visit,” Westfield Woden Centre Manager Craig Smellie said.
“The positive response to this video is nice to see and highlights the value of shared community spaces. Something as simple as a musical instrument can enhance the customer experience and encourage meaningful connections in our community.”
According to Pianos Pub, there are currently 15 public pianos across the ACT, with seven located in the CBD and one each in Lyneham, Belconnen, Dickson, Gungahlin, Woden, Stromlo, Tuggeranong and Capital Hill.
