WHILE the busking controversy mounts in the rest of the city centre this July, on the streets of Liverpool One they are dancing to a more rarefied tune – all played on pianos. 

Five pianos – tuned to concert pitch - are there for the playing in what organisers say is the world’s only official piano busking festival, taking place next month.

Tickle the Ivories will return for a second year from 7th July to 16th September, 2012.

The ten-week piano festival is open to everyone, from professional to amateur players, who are all invited to book free time slots to perform on and around the pianos – or just show up and have a go.

Original

Last year’s Tickle the Ivories was a huge success, say organisers Open Culture, with over 900 musicians taking part and almost 4,000 hours of performance.

Pianists from every musical genre did a turn, joined by 70-strong choirs, break dancing groups, school orchestras and improvised comedy and theatre groups. One of The Corrs even turned up.

Charlotte Corrie, director of Open Culture, said: “Tickle the Ivories was a massive success last year, so we’re really excited to be putting on such an original event again.”

Donna Howitt, Marketing Director at Liverpool ONE said: “Last year many of our visitors commented on the great atmosphere that Tickle the Ivories created and I’m sure this year’s festival will be just as exciting and vibrant. We want to encourage people to explore the festival and take this opportunity to experience and enjoy music that they may not normally listen to.”

As well as the five stationary pianos around Liverpool One there will be the Tickle on Tour piano. From Albert Dock to Liverpool Central Station the touring piano will explore the city.

There are also free play sessions each day, where any member of public can play without pre-booking.

All performers taking part in Tickle the Ivories are licensed to busk in the Liverpool One world, and keep all the proceeds they make.

For more information and to book your slot get in touch with Open Culture here or call  0151 478 4550.