A Workaround
for
piano students
At the Musical Instrument Fund, we are committed to doing as much as possible to support our target group during these difficult times. For example, in close collaboration with David Kuyken (Instrument Committee), the moving company Griffioen, and piano technician Frank Bonarius, we have now launched an emergency initiative to help piano students who no longer have any access to an instrument now that music programs have been forced to close their doors.
Free of charge
For the time being, we have made 12 grand pianos, one fortepiano, and one harpsichord available from storage to be placed in musicians’ practice rooms while the programs remain closed. All conservatories have been informed of this initiative so that we can jointly select candidates. On Friday, March 27, the first shipment was delivered, consisting of a harpsichord, a fortepiano, and four grand pianos! We have already been able to help eleven students obtain a (temporary) instrument. There are no costs associated with this initiative for the musicians.
Space for a grand piano
However, many piano students simply do not have the space to accommodate a grand piano. For many of these students, this means they cannot take their exams, and in some cases, it even leads to them dropping out of the program. The Musical Instrument Fund therefore wants to take it a step further: we want to explore the possibility of concert venues with a grand piano granting access to piano students. Of course, everything must be organized in such a way that all government and RIVM rules and guidelines are followed. As soon as we have more information, we’ll let you know right away.
Where can I sign up?
The number of instruments currently available is not sufficient to meet the needs of all piano students and pianists. In consultation with all Dutch conservatories and principal subject instructor David Kuyken (a member of the Instrument Committee of the Music Instrument Fund), candidates have been selected for the available instruments. We will keep you informed about making locations with a grand piano available for practice. For questions or urgent requests, please send an email to Frits Schutte (head of the collection).