Piano in Washington Square

Has anyone ever noticed the acoustics in Washington Square Park?

The other night, my brother and his girlfriend came up for a visit. We walked around the city all day, taking advantage of the recent change in weather. By evening, we found ourselves strolling into Washington Square, where we decided to just sit and listen for a little while. Some young musician had rolled his upright piano out into the middle of the park, and, for whatever change was dropped in the bucket, provided the most incredible atmosphere for a beautiful night.

He was playing Debussy's "Suite Bergamasque." Its a beautiful piece, that always captures me when I hear it, yet there was something more to it that night. Somehow the acoustics of Washington Square added a bit of magic to the mix. I think the way that the circular piazza is situated-- just far enough from any real traffic, and large enough for it never to seem crowded-- mixes the transient noise of young families, couples old and young, and college students into an intimate atmosphere that puts the musician and passersby in conversation. The acoustics of the circle morph the outdoor park into a grand space defined by music-- music of the streets, music of people, and music of a piano.

But very simply, it represented to me what life in the city can be at its best. People coming together in a public space, enjoying and appreciating those around us. It was a peaceful as a night under the stars... which will likely be the topic of my next post.