Jon Batiste and He Gets Us Launch Sing for Hope Pianos in New Orleans

Sing for Hope Pianos to Color New Orleans

From February 4th to 20th, 2025, the vibrant city of New Orleans will once again host the incredible Sing for Hope Pianos initiative. This year, it is in partnership with the He Gets Us project, led by Sing for Hope Board Member and local music icon Jon Batiste. A total of ten uniquely designed pianos, created by local artists, will be installed in the Ninth Ward, giving the community an open invitation to engage with the arts and celebrate creativity surrounding the upcoming big game.

This initiative marks the fourth consecutive year that Sing for Hope has brought its artistic celebration to the Big Easy, aiming to uplift and inspire through the power of music. Each piano is a colorful representation of selfless love and local culture, designed by New Orleans artists working in collaboration with StudioBE and Eternal Seeds. The vibrant designs promise to energize public spaces, inviting residents and visitors alike to join in the musical festivities.

Community Connection Through Music

The location of these pianos will encourage people to play, listen, and connect. Starting from February 4, these pianos will be set in easily accessible public areas, resonating the spirit of creativity that New Orleans is renowned for. On February 8, a special community event, the He Gets Us Presents Jon Batiste's Love Riot Festival, will feature a live performance by Batiste himself, along with a showcase of one of the uniquely designed Sing for Hope Pianos.

Jon Batiste emphasized the importance of public art and its ability to foster community spirit: "We bring these Sing for Hope Pianos to our shared streets because the context of where you experience music can profoundly change you. Public sharing of art fosters and affirms community. It’s what we need right now."

A Celebration of Art and Culture

The Sing for Hope initiative does not only serve as a musical experience but is also an opportunity for artists to express their visions of love and connection through their artwork. Each piano features original designs that reflect the diverse narratives and vibrant culture of New Orleans, effectively creating a canvas for dialogues on love and unity.

Monica Yunus, co-founder of Sing for Hope, shared her enthusiasm, stating, “New Orleans is a city brimming with creativity. Partnering with Jon Batiste to bring these pianos to the Ninth Ward celebrates this creativity and the communal spirit surrounding the game.” Indeed, this project extends beyond mere entertainment; it signifies a commitment to community upliftment and artistic expression.

A Legacy of Creativity

Since its inception in 2010 in New York City, Sing for Hope has become one of the world's most prominent public arts programs, placing over 700 artist-designed pianos in various locations around the globe. After the New Orleans installation concludes on February 20, the pianos will find permanent homes in local schools and community centers, ensuring the legacy of music continues to thrive in the city long after the event.

The efforts of Sing for Hope reflect a broader commitment to using the arts as a means of healing and connection in communities worldwide. With initiatives like this, Sing for Hope not only champions creativity but also enriches the cultural fabric of cities, inviting everyone to partake in the joy and magic of music.

To explore the pianos' locations, open play times, and more, visit singforhope.org/pianos/new-orleans-2025.

Whether you are a local or visiting the city, the Sing for Hope Pianos offer an engaging platform for artistic expression and community gathering, proving once again that music really does have the power to unify and inspire.