Sing for Hope's programs continue to be a source of hope, healing, and connection for individuals and communities of all ages. Our signature Sing for Hope Pianos have become vital tools in fostering social bonds and combating the isolating effects of modern life, exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic.
The Sing for Hope Intergenerational Community Arts Program, an evolution of our acclaimed Pianos initiative, takes this mission further by engaging older adults, youth, and the wider community in a collaborative act of artistic expression. This innovative approach not only revitalizes neighborhoods but also provides a platform for intergenerational exchange, empowering seniors to share their wisdom and creativity while fostering a sense of purpose and belonging.
Recent collaborations in New York and Los Angeles exemplify the program's transformative power, reaching diverse audiences and demonstrating the arts' ability to bridge divides, ignite joy, and build resilient communities.
New York City: A Tapestry of Shared Creativity
“I am so happy, because as a child I had a piano. I had to give mine away, but now I can come to the community center and play whenever it’s available.” – Brownsville older adult
"Having a piano in the community center opens up a lot of possibilities and engagement, it's also aesthetically pleasing to look at. A lot of opportunities to engage in song, collaborations and ideas. I think it's wonderful, it brings in more community." – Uniqua Simmons, Polo Grounds
In collaboration with New York City Aging, Sing for Hope brought its Intergenerational Community Arts Program to the Polo Grounds Community Center in Harlem and the Van Dyke Community Center in Brownsville. Led by visual artist Danielle Chery, these vibrant NYCHA communities embarked on a collaborative journey to create two unique Sing for Hope Pianos, each a testament to the shared spirit and creativity of their respective neighborhoods.
Over six workshops, seniors and youth alike explored themes of color symbolism, personal identity, and the power of community. Through painting, storytelling, and shared experiences, they forged meaningful connections while crafting intricate piano designs that would become permanent centerpieces in their communities.
The creative process was as transformative as the final product. Seniors found renewed joy and purpose, with some even incorporating their crocheted and knitted creations into the piano designs. Youth learned from the wisdom and life stories of their elders, fostering a sense of intergenerational understanding and appreciation.
As Danielle Chery eloquently puts it, "Art is life, and our communities thrive in creative environments." The Sing for Hope Pianos in Harlem and Brownsville stand as vibrant symbols of this truth, inspiring artistic expression, connection, and community pride.
Genspace: An Intergenerational Oasis of Creativity
The launch of Wallis Annenberg Genspace in Los Angeles resonated deeply with Sing for Hope's mission to foster creativity and connection across generations. Genspace's innovative approach to reimagining aging aligned perfectly with our own creative aging programs, prompting a natural partnership centered around our iconic Sing for Hope Pianos.
Building on the success of our West Coast piano initiative in 2021, supported by The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts and The City of Beverly Hills, we embarked on a collaborative journey with Genspace to create a one-of-a-kind Sing for Hope Piano.
Leading this artistic endeavor was Judi Donin, an 82-year-young artist and Sing for Hope veteran, whose vibrant spirit and extensive creative experience made her the ideal partner. Joined by enthusiastic students from GRoW @ The Wallis, Judi designed and executed a visually stunning piano that pays homage to Los Angeles' unique natural and architectural landscape.
This intergenerational collaboration, supported by artist and educator Rachel Kilroy, exemplifies Sing for Hope's commitment to fostering meaningful connections through the arts. The resulting Genspace piano not only showcases the creative talents of both young and old but also serves as a testament to the power of art to transcend age and inspire joy.
For over a decade, Sing for Hope Pianos have graced public spaces around the world, from bustling city streets to refugee camps, bringing communities together through shared creative experiences. At Genspace, this tradition continues, thanks to the generous support of The Wallis Annenberg Foundation. The Genspace Sing for Hope Piano stands as a vibrant symbol of intergenerational unity, cultural enrichment, and the enduring power of the arts to heal and inspire.
Thanks to the support and vision of The Wallis Annenberg Foundation, the Sing for Hope Piano at Genspace channels both musical and visual inspiration, and will enrich the lives of Genspace members and the greater community for years to come.
