Washington Evening Journal
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Washington, IA 52353
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Thursday Noon Concert Series performances are must-see
AT THE LIBRARY
By Alison Greiner, at WPL
Mar. 19, 2025 1:34 pm
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
I had a friend from out of town visit me at the library last week who had never been in our library before. She was taken aback by our space's beauty, openness, and comfortable atmosphere. She commented on how the light shines through our vast front windows and makes everything glow. I would have to agree. One can't help but be warmed and refreshed once they enter. Of course, I had to give her the whole tour, and I made sure I showed her my favorite spot.
Upstairs, near the windows, we have a restored Steinway & Sons piano that was originally built in 1888. It is a marvelous instrument. It's a grandiose statement in size, but it is probably one of the best-sounding pianos I have ever heard. Listening to and playing such a fantastic instrument is such a treat. Since libraries are usually quiet, there are limited times we allow the piano to be played. Still, we savor those times when you hear lovely music playing in the background.
If you haven't attended one of our Thursday Noon Concert Series on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month, you need to put that on your must-do list. They start at 12 p.m. and go until 1 p.m. We have all kinds of performers from our area, not only pianists. It is always a delightful way to spend the noon hour. You can always see the upcoming performers on our event calendar or in the event section for the library on our Facebook page.
If you are interested in performing, you can get more information at the library desk. The librarians can explain the process our music committee uses to review and approve various musicians and give you any other information. We also have a piano marathon in December. Pianists can sign up for a half-hour slot to play the piano throughout the day. Make sure you keep your eye out for that at the end of the year.
Come in and enjoy a comfy, quiet spot to read in the library, or stop in over your lunch hour on the second and fourth Thursday of the month for a chance to hear one of our noon concerts. See you there!