Public Pianos: Where to Find Them & What to Play
Ten Playable Public Pianos can be found at different locations around the Quad Cities. They are a result of an effort by River Music Experience under a concept called OneSound which hopes to connect Quad Citizens and visitors through the arts.
Local artists decorated all ten pianos. Then, they were placed in outside businesses and parks for people to enjoy: by playing, hearing, and seeing them. The hope is people will all get out and experience life and connect with each other through the joy of music. The best part is that this is happening all around the Quad Cities Community.
Where are these pianos, you ask? At some of the most unique and enjoyable spaces the Quad Cities have to offer. Check out these great locations along with some song suggestions for each piano.
Antique Archaeology in LeClaire, IA
This fun shop is the home base of Mike Wolfe – HISTORY Channel's American Pickers.
Song to play: “Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Raider’s March” by John Williams
Andrzej Kozlowski owner/director at Sound Conservatory Music Academy and Shoppe playing in Arts Alley
Arts Alley in Rock Island, IL
Located in the 1700 block of 2nd Avenue, this alley will highlight the arts offering a space for performances, murals, and art exhibits.
Songs to play: “Mona Lisa” by Nat King Cole or “Vincent (Starry Starry Night) by Don McLean
The Freight House Farmers Market in Davenport, IA
Enjoy this year around market located in Davenport, Iowa. 200+ farmers, bakers, makers, and artisanal food producers.
Songs to play: “Vegetables” by the Beach Boys or “Peaches” by Presidents of the United States of America
Mercado on Fifth in Moline, IL
This outdoor, summer night market features taco trucks, live Latin music, vendor booths from a variety of local crafters, retailers, and plenty of kids’ activities.
Song to play: “Livin’ la Vida Loca” by Ricky Martin
The Niabi Zoo, Coal Valley, IL
Visit the zoo and see over 600 animals representing 200 species from around the world, living on more than 40 acres of forest preserve
Songs to play: “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” by the Tokens or “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
The Quad Cities Waterfront Convention Center in Bettendorf, IA
This state-of-the-art facility's stunning architecture and decor is the perfect place for your next meeting, convention, banquet, or reception.
Songs to play: “(Sitting in) the Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding or “The River” by Garth Brooks
The Kelley Family of Port Byron checking out the piano at The Quad City Botanical Center.
The Quad City Botanical Center in Rock Island, IL
Wander the set of botanical gardens located both inside and outdoors next to the Mississippi River at 2525 4th Avenue, Rock Island, Illinois.
Songs to play: “The Rose” by Bette Midler or “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
Quad City International Airport, Moline, IL
Serving travelers from eastern Iowa and western Illinois with 4 airlines to 10 nonstop destinations and major hubs, you can get yourself where you need to be from right here in the QC.
Song to play: “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver
Runner’s Park in East Moline, IL
The piano at this park on the corner of 8th Street and 15th Avenue is called Magnolia Dream and was donated by local artist Carolyn Krueger. I highly recommend taking one of her pottery classes!
Carolyn recommends the song: “California Dreamin’” by the Mamas and the Papas or consider: “Run for your Life” by the Beatles
Vander Veer Botanical Park in Davenport, IA
This lovely botanical park with conservatory, outdoor gardens, fountains, nationally-recognized rose garden and hosta glade is a delight!
Songs to play: “Every Rose has its Thorn” by Poison or “Bed of Roses” by Bon Jovi
Written by Meghan Cooley
Meghan Cooley moved to the Quad Cities from St. Charles, IL, as an Augustana College student over 20 years ago. She left briefly after graduation and then returned to work in admissions and then marketing at Augustana College for 18 years. She now works as a consultant for admissions marketing and social media. She also does copy editing and writes for the Quad City Moms Blog. Now a true Quad Cities transplant, Meghan lives in Rock Island with her husband, Luke (R.O.W.V.A. and Augustana grad and Modern Woodmen employee) and four boys. She loves living in the Quad Cities and finds it the perfect place to raise a family, plan a date night, and go on adventures.