Southeastern joined forces with the Hastings International Piano Competition to bring live music to passengers this week and encourage customers to travel by train.
Former prize winner Mariamna Sherling gave an informal performance in the Victorian ticket office at Battle station before joining the 13.13pm service to Hastings where she performed classical music live for passengers en-route to Hastings.
On arrival at the station Mariamna was met by volunteers from local charities and the Seaview Project, which together along with artist Sophie Malpas had designed and decorated a colourful piano in Hastings Station for the public to enjoy.
The event marked the start of the 18th Hastings International Piano Competition, which runs from 26 February to 7 March at the White Rock Theatre.
Martin James Bartlett, who is presenting this year’s Hastings International Piano Competition, said:
“With an array of inspiring young musicians attending this year’s competition it was a pleasure to share this with Southeastern passengers and to brighten their day.
“We look forward to welcoming attendees from across southeast and beyond and together celebrating the work of our young concert pianists.”
Kevin Warn, Southeastern's General Manager for Passenger Services South, said:
“It was a pleasure to bring a unique cultural moment to our customers and demonstrated just how easily visitors can travel by train to enjoy world-class events like the Hastings International Piano Competition.
“We’re thrilled to work with partners who share our commitment to enriching the communities we serve.”
Tickets for the Hastings International Piano Competition are available here.
