Customers at Crystal Palace London Overground station can share their musical talents with fellow passengers, following the unveiling of the new ‘piano cove’ in the ticket hall.

The piano installation was championed by Arriva Rail London (ARL) colleagues Natalia Hamilton, service delivery resilience manager, and Neal Bailey, customer experience manager. Earlier this year, a resident contacted the station team to donate her piano to the station, as she wanted to create a vibrant atmosphere for commuters. Natalia and Neal then arranged for a thorough safety check and refurbishment to house the new addition.

An inauguration event was held on Thursday 17 October with the help of schoolchildren from the local Harris Primary Academy School, who sang for customers and proud parents. ARL managing director, Steve Best, also showcased his piano skills at the event.

Natalia Hamilton, service delivery resilience manager at ARL, said: “It’s wonderful to see this project come together so seamlessly. Having Harris Academy Primary School perform at the launch event highlights how our stations can be more than just transit points – they can be hubs for the local community. We’re excited to create more moments like this that have a positive impact on our passengers and local neighbourhoods.”