From one man on a bicycle to a store full of Yamaha pianos, P.S. Pianos has had quite the journey
William Shakespeare once said, "if music be the food of love, play on." The owner and staff at PS Pianos in Prince George must agree – they've devoted their lives to music, and to sharing it with other people.
Ben Croll, a full-time employee whohas a degree in music, says that he and the owner of the store, Peter Stevenson, are passionate about "providing music to the community."
He continues, "The idea is that we do everything piano related – tuning, repairs, moving, sales. And we love to do it because it has such a positive effect: just being able to fix upan old piano for a family or to move one into their homes... After we do our services, they have access to music in their lives."
Croll says that the company came into existence about ten years ago, when store owner and certified piano technician Peter Stevenson began riding his bike to local homes to repair old pianos. From there, the business grew, until it opened its doors at its present-day home on Brunswick Street downtown.
Stevenson and Croll are both passionate about bringing pianos to homes, because "there are so many benefits music can provide, from mental health to the gentle physical aspects for those with arthritis."
How much happiness does a piano actually brings someone?
“Lots of people don't realize what a connection they will have with it. It brings so much joy, they won’t know until they sit down and actually play it."
Croll says that the storefront carries everything from small digital keyboards to professional high-end Yamaha grand pianos. They also carry sheet music, lamps, benches, pedals, stands, and cleaning equipment.
Another enthusiastic offering from PS. Pianos is their group lessons for seniors. Croll says that the lessons are "super relaxed, a great way to meet friends." They run for an hour each week, and are suitable for either beginners or those returning to playing after a time away. "We learn one note at a time, it's like a book club for piano. It's just a great way to escape reality and indulge in music," says Croll.
To learn more about P.S. Pianos and its services, pop into their storefront at Unit 102, 575 Brunswick Street. You can also call them at 250-564-0481 or check pspianos.com.
