Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt Smithmier.
Hi Matt, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
As a lifelong musician, I grew up playing piano, later the trumpet through college, then mandolin and guitar in various bands. While clearing out my old band’s practice space, I couldn’t bear to throw out that abandoned century-old piano and lose the gorgeous wood under all that dust. After slowly dismantling it and revealing the beautiful harp hidden inside, I knew I had to do something more with it.
Several years later after I met my partner, Jess, we discovered we both had a passion for saving and transforming the craftmanship that went into so many pianos otherwise left for the landfill. An artist and designer herself, Jess had the vision for a potential business to share these works of art with others.
Today, Jess and I (along with our blended family of six kids) work to create art, lighting and furniture using every part of pianos from around the Kansas City metro area — pianos that have been loved for decades but now need a new home.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Yes, it has been a smooth road so far!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Often the centerpiece of so many homes, the family piano is not only a place to make music but also a gathering place, at the center of holidays and special occasions and a crucial participant in so many life milestones.
From humble uprights to majestic baby grands, these instruments contain a multitude of components that tell a story of craftsmanship and handmade artistry.
We use these pianos as our medium, to give new purpose and revitalize what otherwise would be lost to time, so it can be appreciated in an entirely new way. It’s art with a story: an old soul in a new expression.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Every piano is unique, so we have to approach every step of the process slightly differently. That brings certain challenges but gives us lots of opportunities to create unique, one-of-a-kind art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.secondchairart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secondchairart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566849962503
