Marathons are getting more common nowadays, but the one that Stephen Ridley is planning to attempt is very different and probably not done before. This marathon will be harder on the hands rather than the legs.
Stephen Ridley, a 23 year old from Hackney, London, is planning to put his talent to good use. The pianist is planning to perform for 24 hours straight, without stopping. His performance will be held on the outside of Tate Modern, an art gallery in London, and it will commence on Friday at 3pm. He will be using one of fifty pianos across the capital as part of an arts project known as “Play Me, I’m Yours”.
Just last year, Stephen left his job as an investment banker in order to become a street musician. He travels around the world, spreading the joy of music in genres such as classical, jazz, pop and blues. He decided to take on this fundraiser event to help raise some money for the Cancer Research UK after his best friend’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. “The most I’ve played for before without stopping is eight hours and I was exhausted then,” he said.
This time, Stephen has decided to push himself to his limits by tripling his record timing. Even the best or most notable pianists in the world do not attempt to put themselves through to such torment. This is really what sets Stephen apart from other pianists. He may not be the most recognised pianist yet, but he has an honest and sincere heart. He is willing to use his talent to help raise funds for those who truly need the money.
Luke Jerram is the creator behind this piano project. In fact, he has brought this project to different parts of the world too. “It’s amazing to watch how the pianos get used by different people and the stories that come out of them. A couple of years ago a couple met at one site, fell in love and when they got married, they invited the piano to the wedding,” stated Luke. For the full story, you can check it out here.
Music is a universal language. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, it still speaks to your heart. Hence, when one plays the piano, they will be able to share the joy of it with the rest of the world! If you haven’t experience that joy yet, why not give it a shot? Piano Lessons SG offers piano lessons to Singaporeans. Feel free to check out our website for more information.