Posted by TONY KELLY for DAVE BROWN
on 17/1/2008, 9:48 pm, in reply to "Grand Piano"
82.31.163.177
I am writing to express my concerns about the rumours which have spread concerning the possible removal of the Grand Piano from the entrance hall at Halsway.
I am aware that this piano belongs to David Fleming-Williams’ family and has been on long term loan to the Manor.
As a musician I have used the piano on many, many occasions to accompany small music groups and choirs which have performed in the entrance and on the stairs. Indeed, I am planning to do so again at the Folk Camps Winter Warmer in 2 weeks time. Any removal of this facility, in my opinion, would damage the artistic potential of the manor and reduce the resources available to visiting instructors and teachers. We are after all "A National Centre for Traditional Music" and should therefore provide quality instruments for our musicians to use. The entrance hall, much underused in my opinion, is a vital asset to the Manor and, with the availability of the piano, provides an excellent opportunity for guests to add to the overall ambiance. As a piece of furniture it also adds to the overall "statelyness" of the Manor.
Rather than simply get rid of the piano I would encourage everyone to explore opportunities to repair and refurbish this instrument and provide a means to protect it from everyday wear and tear.
I would be interested to know about other musician’s views and also to know what David Fleming-Williams’ might be. I would also be in favour of starting a renovation fund for the piano and more than willing to contribute to it so that the piano can be retained for everyone to benefit.
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