Is it possible to fall in love with a musical instrument? Yes. As I travel, I find myself lamenting the lack of musical instruments available to play. I feel "there could be music here", but without an instrument I cannot play.
Here, in San Francisco, I was hoping to find many public pianos for people to play; a place where people of all talents can come and impact others' days. From the expert pianist who has been refining their craft for years, to the people who are learning to play a song and embracing the opportunity to do so out in the open.
My affection for pianos runs deep. Playing music in public, irrespective of one's skill level, creates community. I feel hopeful when people offer to help teach me something new while I play; I get excited by the potential of being able to play with someone else. This serendipitious potential is like fuel.
When I sit at a piano, I feel like the only thing in the world is me and the music. My hands know what to do, and they make music. I experiment, see whether a new note would improve a song. Sometimes I learn a new technique; other times, I learn what not to do next time I play the song. When playing, I feel complete.
Tagged in San Francisco.