A brand-new piano has been installed in the former Eurostar terminal at London Waterloo station, offering passengers and visitors the opportunity to play or enjoy live music.
The piano, introduced in collaboration with Morley College, was first played by its students. Among the pieces performed in the newly renamed ‘Orchestra Pit’ was ABBA’s ‘Waterloo.’
Since its debut, the piano has become a favorite at the UK’s third-busiest station, attracting musicians eager to entertain commuters and visitors.
The Sidings Shopping Centre will host two 45-minute performances by Daniel Wilsher, a finalist from Channel 4’s The Piano, tomorrow (Saturday, August 3) at 11:30 and 12:30. These performances will kick off a competition inviting the public to record themselves playing the piano, with a £500 prize at stake.
Jointly funded by Network Rail, South Western Railway (SWR), Morley College, We Are Waterloo, and The Sidings Shopping Centre, the piano is located in the Orchestra Pit, near platforms 20-24. Morley College students will also perform on the piano in the coming months.
Emily Haggard, London Waterloo Station Manager for Network Rail, commented: “Music has the power to touch the soul, and we hope this new piano at Waterloo will bring smiles to our visitors. If you’re passionate about playing, come give it a try—there’s no need for a ticket. If you enjoy it, we hope you’ll join us in appreciating the music.”
She also expressed gratitude to Morley College for the artwork surrounding the piano, Markson’s Pianos for their support, and local partners We Are Waterloo, The Sidings, and South Western Railway.
Megan Doole, Centre Coordinator at The Sidings, added: “The piano at The Sidings represents our commitment to making art accessible to everyone. We’re thrilled to have Daniel Wilsher launch our competition and look forward to discovering the talent that will emerge from those playing the piano at Waterloo Station.”
Chico Coulibaly, Regional Manager for South Western Railway at Waterloo, said: “We’re thrilled to see the new piano being used in Waterloo Station’s Orchestra Pit. Whether you’re a budding Chopin or just experimenting, we hope the piano adds a harmonious touch to our customers’ journeys.”
