IT has been an exciting time for the Camden Haven Arts Council recently with the acquisition of a new piano to reside in the Kendall School of Arts hall.

“Now more than 40 years old, the Arts Council’s existing piano was showing definite signs of irreparable wear, so the Management Committee started the search for a replacement,” says president Louise Dix.

“With the help of Taree piano technician Tony Prince, a two year old Kawai chamber grand piano for sale by a music teacher, was sourced north of Kempsey.”

Port Macquarie and Laurieton music teachers Ellen Pass, Hilje Siren and Ensi Payne travelled to inspect the piano with members of the Arts Council committee.

While this was happening a local buyer for the Yamaha piano, which has served the Arts Council for more than 20 years, was found.

While no longer up to professional standard it will give many more years of pleasure in a private home.

Several Arts Council members generously contributed to the cost of the new piano, just as happened many years ago when the original piano was purchased after a giant fundraising effort.

However, the majority of the new piano cost was contributed from the Arts Council’s own funds, built up over many years of volunteer effort by members and committees presenting music events for the community.

At only two years old, Tony Prince advises that the new Kawai piano is not even “run in” yet and will only improve as time – and use – increases. Arts Council members can be thrilled with their new piano, which is available for hire to approved users.

“While acknowledging that many people have a soft spot in their hearts for the original piano, the current Arts Council Management Committee feels it has taken responsible actions to replace it at a time when it can still have years of life left, and in its place providing a first class instrument for use by visiting pianists, to the benefit of the whole community,” said Ms Dix.

Enquiries regarding the hire of the Camden Haven Arts Council piano should be directed to treasurer Topsy Roberts on 6584 8682.

Donations to the Arts Council Piano Fund are tax-deductible. Anyone who would like to make a contribution to the Fund is asked to contact the treasurer.