Piano man tickled pink about ivories

By Kath Gannaway
SEEING local musician Neville Turner tickling the ivories on a gleaming black piano was a dream come true for Warburton’s favourite senior citizen, Ron Howard.
When Ron turned 90 earlier this year, he knew exactly what he wanted for his birthday – a piano to take pride of place when the Warburton Mechanics Institute is returned to its former glory.
Guests at his birthday bash donated money to a piano fund and a friend, the late Jan Cameron, made a parting gift of $300 before she died to bring the fund to the $2000 needed.
Ron enlisted the help of Dawn Holland at the Upper Yarra Art Centre to organise the purchase from an East Warburton resident and the UYAC paid for its relocation.
“Ronnie was desperate that the community should have a piano and that the piano should be in the Mechanics for anyone who wanted to have a play,” Ms Holland said.
“All together, it has been a wonderful community effort.”
The piano is now waiting in the wings at the UYAC for the Mechanics Institute restoration to be completed. Ron was thrilled recently to sing along as Mr Turner put the piano through its paces. He was especially pleased to hear the talented Mr Turner sing its praises.
“It’s just beautiful,” he crooned, “tuneful, a lovely touch, smooth action. It’s a very versatile piano which will be very good for classical and for jazz,” he said.
As for Ron, a big grin said it all.
“I can just see it in the hall… it’s wonderful.,” he said.
“I can’t thank everyone enough for making this possible!”