Pianos for People strikes the right note

Directed by Nate Townsend, through Townsend Hurst, this film for Pianos for People, reveals the organisation’s mission to present the piano as an instrument enabling not only sweet sounds, but empowerment and self-esteem.

Starring Greta Sesheta (Grey’s Anatomy, Shameless) the narrative follows a jazz pianist who, at the tail-end of a successful career, reflects on a life enriched by music. Committed to paying it forward, she donates her upright to Pianos for People, ensuring it's given new life and a loving home.

The director commented: “I know the impact a piano can have because I’ve lived it. My father instilled creative passions in me at a young age – music, writing and filmmaking – and this shaped me into the person I am today.” 

Nate’s late father Tom founded Pianos for People in 2012 after the tragic loss of his son Alex (Nate’s brother). Since then the organisation has delivered more than 500 pianos throughout the St. Louis area. It also offers free piano lessons at its flagship schools in Saint Louis and Ferguson.

The score for the film was written and composed by world-renowned jazz pianist Peter Martin.