The Hopkinton Center for the Arts (HCA) recently welcomed a remarkable new addition to its campus—a beautifully transformed P.A. Strack Cabinet piano, generously donated by Dianne DeLucia of Andover, Massachusetts. This 70-year-old instrument, steeped in family history, now stands as a vibrant piece of public art on the porch of HCA’s historic farmhouse.
The piano, which belonged to the DeLucia family for generations, carries the legacy of Dianne’s grandfather—a self-taught musician who could play any tune by ear, much to the delight of family and friends. Seeking to preserve its sentimental value while giving it new purpose, DeLucia donated the piano to the Newton Artful Pianos initiative, a public art project that pairs donated pianos with local artists for creative transformation.
The piano’s artistic rebirth was led by DaNice Marshall, a celebrated local artist whose recent solo exhibition “Smiling Out Loud” captivated visitors at HCA’s gallery. Through her vision and talent, the piano was reimagined into a stunning work of art that now offers both aesthetic charm and musical joy to the community.
With the Newton Artful Pianos project drawing to a close, the collaboration between DeLucia and Marshall ensured the piano found a permanent home where its story could continue to inspire.
“We’re so grateful to DaNice for connecting us with Dianne while searching for a final home for this lovely piano,” said Kelly Grill, Executive Director of HCA. “This unique installation beautifully blends visual and performing arts—exactly the kind of interdisciplinary creativity that defines HCA’s mission.”
The piano will remain on the porch of HCA’s Music building, offering visitors a chance to enjoy its charm in the open air. Once colder weather arrives, it will be carefully moved indoors to preserve its beauty and continue its legacy year-round.
This unique installation not only honors a family’s musical heritage but also celebrates the power of art to connect people across generations and communities.
