About Us
At The Piano, our purpose is to enrich people’s lives by providing a world-class facility for music and the arts in Canterbury. We are a place where all people are encouraged to join in and participate, whether through performing, teaching and learning, connecting or taking in a show with friends.
From our original beginnings as The Music Centre of Christchurch to our stunning new home in the central city, we are proud to be an icon of creativity and connection in Christchurch.
Our name and place
Our Te Reo Maori is Pīpīwharauroa: Kui-kui whitiwhiti ora. Pīpīwharauroa means “the shining cuckoo”, which is a bird of significance for Ngāi Tūāhuriri. Not only are pīpīwharauroa known as singers, entertainers and conveyors of messages, they’re also viewed as a sign of spring and new beginnings.
Our Tenants
Meet the people and teams who currently call The Piano their second home!
Our Trustees

“Music has a way of connecting with people’s physical senses and heart emotions – it’s like a window into an artist’s soul. I feel privileged to play a part in continuing the important legacy of encouraging music and the arts in a world class facility like The Piano.”

“It’s a pleasure to be part of the team that provides this wonderful facility. Creativity is what enables us to connect with a diverse range of people. I see it in my own children as they grow to love and experience music.”

“My passion for the arts largely stemmed from nurturing a (now grown up) son who learned violin from age 5 to gain his Associate of the Royal Schools of Music diploma. I’m proud to contribute to a venue where local and overseas musicians can perform at the highest levels.”

“After years of being supported and mentored in my own personal music career, I’m excited by the opportunity to give back to our local and national arts community. I hope that by sharing my own skills and experience I can help facilitate opportunities for our amazing artists and promoters to be seen, heard and enjoyed.“

“I wish to contribute to The Piano’s success for all stakeholders: the artists, the audiences and all who have played a part in developing this iconic arts facility. For me, it’s a strong symbol of Christchurch’s earthquake recovery, and my hope is that it will attract high quality performers for many years to come.”
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FAQs
Bus: The Piano is a 12 minute walk from the Bus Interchange.
Bike: There are bike racks right outside the venue.
Drive: Check out Christchurch City Council’s handy map to find nearby carparks
Yes, the facilities at The Piano are suitable for a range of events and activities – concerts, workshops, lectures, dance, drama, tuition, graduations, AGMS, business meetings and receptions.
Venue hire cost is dependant on your requirements.
Our office is open Monday to Friday from 10:00am – 4:00pm.
Yes, The Piano has a bar operating at most public events 45 minutes prior to start time.
The Piano offers a range of wine, beer, soft drinks and pre-packages snacks.
Yes, The Piano has hearing loop facilities
Yes, The Piano is wheelchair accessible.
We have specific wheelchair seating. We do not have an elevator to the top of the Concert Hall. Contact us ahead of time or arrive early to ensure we have a space available for you
Bicycles and animals are not permitted.