From Classical to Modern Pop Music, New GHS Club Unites Players in the Joy of Piano

With nearly 3,000 students, Greenwich High School is home to many talented musicians. If you happen to pass by the school’s chorus room, you might be lucky enough to hear the sound of piano music. This music comes from the school’s Piano Club, which meets once every 8 days to practice together.

Before GHS senior Oliver Sheppard had the idea to start the Piano Club, he was an avid piano player and said music was a family affair.

Members of the GHS Piano Club, left to right Harrison Wolfe, Oliver Sheppard, Rohan Mittal, Hannon Stern, Thomas Tishler, and Caden Cho. Photo: Oliver Sheppard

“Classical music has been prevalent in my household for my entire life, as my dad has played the piano since I was little,” Oliver said.

Growing up, the sounds of his dad practicing were heard throughout his home. After his older brother also picked up the hobby, Oliver followed suit, starting at 8 years old and practicing nearly every day.

He also performs at recitals for his teacher three times a year, and plays yearly with many of the region’s pianists in front of judges at the Fairfield Music Festival.

At the beginning of every school year, GHS holds a fair for the school’s clubs to advertise and recruit incoming freshmen. Oliver recalled that while walking along aisles of club posters in the school gym, he was surprised that there was no club for pianists. The school has many opportunities for musicians to play together, such as the orchestra and the band, but there was no way for pianists, who play possibly the most popular instrument, to play their music together.

As GHS is such a big school, Oliver anticipated there would be interest. His friend and fellow pianist Rohan Mittal had a similar thought. At the end of their sophomore year, Rohan and Oliver applied to form a club that would bring together some of the school’s most talented musicians.

As soon as the school day ends, the pianists meet in the school’s chorus room. At some meetings, there might even be students not involved in the club in the same room, waiting to be dismissed. However, the music rises above these potential distractions, and some of the school’s best pianists have opportunity to regularly practice and receive feedback on their pieces. During the 30 minute block, everyone in the group has a chance to play. While mainly focused on classical works from composers such as Chopin or Beethoven, some pianists also enjoy playing modern pop music or film scores.

This practice culminates in performances at retirement homes for senior citizens. The club leaders felt that it was important that the club gave back to the community, as it would allow the pianists to perform what they have been practicing and spread their love for music that others may not have.

“Playing for senior citizens is very rewarding,” Oliver said. “It is so much fun to see the enjoyment that they get out of the music, as they may not have a lot of entertainment options otherwise.”

The club’s recent performance at the Nathaniel Witherell nursing home was a success, as the pianists gained an audience of well over 30 residents. Oliver said that the club is looking to plan their next performance, and that hopefully the program expands in upcoming school year with new freshmen pianists joining the effort.

The Greenwich High School Piano Club has been a great opportunity for pianists to improve their performance skills and provide for their community in the process.