John Lennon’s Piano Becomes Center of Controversy

John Lennon's iconic white piano has become a symbol of the late songwriter's immortal message of peace and freedom. The instrument on which classic songs like "Imagine" were composed has been in the news recently for a controversial recital given by pop star Lady Gaga in the private home of Yoko Ono. Gaga’s performance has offended a select few Lennon fans who feel that she is unworthy of a seat at such an important piece of musical history. By allowing Gaga to play the piano, which John gave to Yoko Ono as a gift, Sean Lennon faces anger from a small group of fans; their critical comments have pushed the issue into the blogging and multi media community, sparking a debate over the implications of the young Lennon’s actions.

Sean Lennon responded to the criticism by asking fans to “lighten up…life’s too short, there’re enough real problems in the world….” Adding, “He gave that piano to my mother for her birthday, it is hers, secondly, he was not uptight the way you seem to be.” However, other fans support Sean, believing that the piano was meant to be played, and they see no problem in letting an accomplished pianist such as Gaga grace its keys.

Did Lady Gaga deserve to play Lennon’s piano? Is the instrument a piece of art to be admired from afar, or something to be played and enjoyed by fellow musicians? What are your thoughts as a Lennon fan, musician, and/or music lover?



SOURCE: http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/music/2010/07/12/2010-07-12_photo_of_lady_gaga_playing_john_lennons_white_piano_removed_by_son_after_
beatles.html

SOURCE: http://tittenhurstlennon.blogspot.com/2009/08/john-lennon-and-yoko-ono-interior-of.html