People are being invited to play tunes on a renovated old piano put on display in Pioneer Square – and audition for a chance to appear at the Bicester Festival.

David Thompson, who restored the 1930s instrument and made it available to the public 18 months ago, has now launched ‘The Piano’ competition.

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He said: “I want to put Bicester’s piano and players on the map.

“We have a Facebook group full of great short videos that people have uploaded, and I would like to encourage more people to sit and play, film, and upload the video to the page.

“A winner will be picked and invited to play live at Bicester Festival on July 15, in Garth Park.”

Mr Thompson went on to talk about the artist who originally painted the piano.

“Casimira Mostyn is always happy to get involved, and having her lovely original art permanently displayed in town is a bonus for everyone.”

Sitting outside the Bicester Ex Services Club, the instrument is free for anyone to use.

Mr Thompson added: “Bearing in mind the piano is outside the whole time, it is still looking in very good condition.

“It has added a bit of music and colour to the area over the past 18 months, and also given joy to many pianists.

“There are a number of regular visitors, often to be seen after school, playing away.

“It has become a much-loved part of the furniture in Bicester.”

The Facebook page where players can upload their videos can be found if you go to Facebook and search ‘Bicester Street Piano’.

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1