The First-Friday Concert

When piano store owners place curtains over their merchandise, it usually means bad news for musicians. However, with Coral Gables’ Piano Music Center, it just means the show is about to begin. “We curtain off areas so people don’t feel intimidated to shop,” says store owner Rick Malinowski. With the help of Hamilton Gutierrez, Malinowski has been hosting concerts in his shop the first Friday of every month, during which, according to Malinowski, pianists from the community are invited to perform “as long as they’re a qualified, legitimate entertainer or a legitimate student.” Using stage lighting he brought from his own house, and one of the store’s pianos, Malinowski describes the concerts as “very casual.” At last month’s event, 65 people attended, about fifteen more than at the premiere held two months ago. “Music’s a funny thing; it’s something to be shared,” says Malinowski. “We’re just trying to provide a service to performers.” This Friday’s performance will feature music ranging from classical to baroque, and wine and cheese will be served afterward.