In a colorful celebration of community, creativity, and unplugged connection, students from Manhattan Beach Middle School have transformed a family heirloom into a vibrant public piano, unveiled Friday afternoon at Metlox Plaza. 

People passing through Metlox are encouraged to sit down and play, whether they’re seasoned pianists or curious beginners.

As part of Disconnect to Connect Week, an initiative encouraging students to put down their phones and engage with those around them, parent volunteers organized a collaborative art project that invited all middle schoolers to help paint a donated piano. More than 30 students took part in the painting, with the invitation open to students of all skill levels and artistic backgrounds.

The piano, donated by Mary and Gary Fender, has been in their family since 1965. Now, it continues its legacy in the heart of Manhattan Beach, where it is open for public use. 

The Fenders expressed their gratitude for the project, saying “I know we donated to the right people.”

On its first day in Metlox, 7th grader Forest inaugurated the instrument with an impressive solo performance, drawing a small crowd of students and passersby. “It’s a nice and comfortable environment to play the piano,” he said. Forest has been playing piano for six years.

That’s precisely what organizers hoped for. “We’re hoping that this is the heart of Manhattan Beach,” said Yea-Lan Chiang, one of the parents behind the project. “People can come here and create a connection.”

The plaza was filled with the sounds of laughter, conversation, and impromptu performances, turning a simple piano into a centerpiece of joy and community. The project aimed not just to create art, but to foster presence and togetherness, a mission that seems to have struck a chord with everyone involved.

The piano will remain at Metlox for the summer, after which it will move back to Manhattan Beach Middle School.