Hospital launches programme of recitals on people’s piano

Fifers will enjoy the sound of music in a programme of recitals on the “people’s piano”.

Several hour-long performances will take place on the baby grand in the foyer of Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy, all of which are free.

Musicians, some of whom are NHS staff, will take part with the first recital due to take place from 1-2pm on Wednesday, courtesy of psychology advice co-ordinator Amira Oudeh.

Her set will reflect her time as a psychologist and she will be accompanied by Gordon Robertson.

The second performance, entitled Johnston Plays Jazz, involves Ewan Johnston, a pupil at St Columba’s High School in Dunfermline and also a junior student at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

He will perform a range of jazz standards, jazz classical pieces and some of his own compositions from 4.305.30pm on Thursday October 24.

Other performers include Kirkcaldy pianist Stewart Abercrombie, the Cantamus ensemble and Victoria Hospital orthoptist Jacqueline Clark.

One concert will take place each month until March.

The piano was donated to the hospital by Balbirnie House Hotel in Markinch in May.

It has since struck a chord with music lovers at the hospital, where it is available for anyone to play.

Launching the programme of recitals, an NHS Fife spokesman said: “These short recitals are free and open to all to pop along and watch the performances.

“Why not grab a coffee, take a seat and enjoy our local talent expressing themselves through music and song, whilst uplifting and soothing others.”