If you saw the classic 1988 film Big you’ll agree that there are many funny scenes. But I bet your favorite scene is where Tom Hanks and Robert Loggia stunned the crowd by playing a giant floor piano in the toy store. Beyond the melody, most viewers would describe the scene as rollicking time. What makes it more beautiful is -it did not end there.
The aftermath of this legendary scene has seen more people adopting giant floor pianos. From a distance, it looks fun, wouldn’t you agree? Maybe even more so, if you happen to be in the limelight playing?
Alexander Dennis Volk is indeed a lucky man, but remember; value is the fruitful result of discipline, not hope (or luck). Over the years through consistent discipline, he has been able to fine-tune his craft.
The man Alexander Dennis, alias Mister Piano.
He enjoys playing public keyboards and rock n’ rolling pianos. Dennis is capable of making great music using his trusty fingers. Below is an accurate description of his talent:
“Mister Piano, real name Dennis Volk, has changed from a class clown to a creative exceptional entertainer on the piano. At the beginning of his career, he mainly played accompanying music for events – always with his own piano – so his tendency towards creativity, extravagance, and visionary thinking soon became apparent. The shows and ideas that he has developed from this have brought him to various TV programs and are popular with organizers all over Europe.”
History of giant pianos or “walking” pianos
According to Wikipedia, the first “big piano” was created in 1982 and it was the one-octave version.
In the same year, it was also displayed at a toy store in New York City – which is called the FAO Schwarz.
An expanded version of it was built in 1988. It was a three-octave version and you know what?
It was the exact piano that they used in the film Big!
The director of the movie –Penny Marshall, was the one who personally requested that enormous instrument.
This exact piano was displayed at Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and it was housed there until 2013. Those people who had the chance to see (or touch it) were rather fortunate.
To this day, walking pianos are readily available. In fact, you can purchase them online and they are kid-friendly.
During One of Mister Piano’s Live Youtube Sessions, he played it in front of a huge crowd.
He was with his partner and they were also in their piano-inspired costumes.
They were also barefoot so they could perform well.
They perfectly stamped every key and did a harmonious version of Heart and Soul.
The audience eegerly participated too.
While Volk’s partner was doing her part, he encouraged everyone to clap to the beat of the song – which they did and it turned out to be a beautiful performance — a magical moment for everyone.
The crowd loved it beyond, and so did the online viewers. With over 5 million views and the majority dropping honest comments, the show was and still is a success. Below are some of the comments:
“The best way to perform a tremolo? Obviously, it’s a handstand! I love this performance. Where is this? And how frequently do you perform? Also, don’t you get super tired or something, depending on how long you perform,” one commenter wrote.
Another YouTuber also said, “This song is so cool. I cannot believe how they do that.”
It’s just nice to know that many people appreciate big talents like this.
Watch the video below to see their tremendous performance!
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