The Jessye Norman School of the Arts is pleased to announce that on June 19^th at 12 p.m. a new painted piano will be placed in the lobby of the Hyatt House in downtown Augusta, located at 1268 Broad St. Augusta, Georgia 30901. 

The piano art was created by artist Railey Warren and commissioned by The Jessye Norman School of The Arts as a part of its ongoing Piano Project. Railey is an uncommonly accomplished young artist. At 16, and the daughter of an active duty military member, she’s left her mark in Tennessee and numerous locations throughout the CSRA. She and her family are active members of the community, volunteering time and talent with seniors and others whenever she’s able. 

Railey found inspiration for the piano’s design while browsing the Augusta Convention and Visitor Bureau’s website which highlights the many native species, outdoor resources, and attractions of the Augusta River Region. The piano features a number of hidden “easter eggs” within the work, meant to give a nod to many of Augusta’s well-known landmarks. 

The Hyatt House is a newly constructed and modern hotel in the shopping, historic, and theater district in downtown Augusta. It is walking distance from SRP park, The Miller Theater, and the Riverwalk. This public piano will contribute to the Hyatt House’s atmosphere and underscores the importance of local art in creating an authentic sense of place in our community. 

Other painted piano locations include at The Jessye Norman School of The Arts, The Miller Theater, The Book Tavern (Sponsored by Turner Keyboards), The Augusta Municipal Building Lobby ( date TBA), Augusta and Co., and Doctor’s Hospital. Other locations and pianos are in process. Downtown piano locations can be found on the “Augusta Downtown Walking Map” 

The Mission of the Jessye Norman School of the Arts is to develop students to become creative, caring, visionary, responsible citizens through the transformative power of the arts. The Piano Project has become a vehicle for connecting businesses, non-profits, artists, and for providing students clear examples of how art happens and how it can impact the community in which they live.

If you would like further information about the Piano Project, to suggest a location, or to sponsor a piano, please email Gary Dennis at [email protected] or call (706) 814-0665.