Today at noon, the launch celebration for Pianos in the Parks was a medley of music, art, and community near the shores of Lake Union (at MOHAI). All 22 pianos were unveiled to “oohs” and “aahs,” before they’re each moved to 22 different local parks and open spaces.

DJ John Richards of KEXP was emcee of the festivities (see photo), which were a whirlwind of activity: a piano performance by Classical KING FM’s Lisa Bergman; the unveiling of the pianos by the artists who designed them; and 22 students playing Irving Berlin’s I Love a Piano at the same time on all 22 pianos! The finale: a half-hour performance by Aqueduct, courtesy of KEXP.

The Pianos in the Parks program, made possible by LNWM, encourages people to discover parks through music and art by placing one-of-a-kind, artist-designed pianos in parks and open spaces in Bellevue, Kirkland, Mercer Island, Seattle and other parts of King County. All pianos are available for free use and music exploration through Aug. 16.

“Last year, we saw how a single, beautifully decorated piano can bring the community together and encourage the discovery and enjoyment of parks and open spaces, “ said Bob Moser, LNWM President and CEO. “Our local parks are vital to creating a strong and healthy community. We’re excited this year to expand the program with more pianos in more parks.”

After the launch celebration, no rest for the weary: The pianos will be moved today and tomorrow to their new homes for a month — local parks and open spaces. Find out where each piano will end up at: http://pianosintheparks.com/find-a-park-piano/

Interested in performing? The Pianos in the Parks video contest is open to all. And keep checking pianosintheparks.com and the Facebook page for upcoming musical events around the pianos, from improv jam sessions by Love City Love to classical concerts by some of our area’s leading pianists.