A specially commissioned public piano, restored and designed to depict the ancient legend of the drowned princess who gave Galway her name, will be unveiled at Ceannt Station tomorrow (Friday ) morning.
The piano, donated by Pat Callan in memory of his late wife, Treasa, to spread her love for music to visitors and the wider Galway community for years to come, will be installed at the station just in time for Culture Night.
The instrument has been restored by piano tuner and public piano curator John Murphy, and painted by illustrator and graphic designer Rachelle O’Regan.
The piano’s artwork is inspired by the ancient story of Gaillimh - the daughter of the legendary chief Breasail, said to have drowned in the River Corrib - weaving together Galway’s mythology, landscape and sense of place.
The Ceannt Station piano will be the latest installation in Iarnród Éireann’s public pianos initiative, which began in 2017 and provides accessible music experiences for rail users and local communities.
Inspired by the belief that music can take you anywhere, the instruments have become much-loved features in stations across Ireland, providing a soundtrack to countless daily journeys and creating opportunities for spontaneous performances, shared memories and moments of connection.
The unveiling, taking place at 10.30am tomorrow, will be attended by members of the Callan family, artist Rachelle O’Regan and representatives from Iarnród Éireann. A special musical performance by musicians, vocalists and composers Emer O’Flaherty and Philip Fogarty will also mark the piano’s first official public performance.
