Abuela Carmen Sat Down at the Old Piano. Her Duet Partner Arrived Right on Cue.
The old upright piano has seen decades of family gatherings, and tonight it's getting a private concert. Abuela Carmen sits at the keys in a green cardigan and floral apron, glasses low on her nose, fingers resting gently on the ivories as she plays something soft and familiar. Sharing the bench is Mango, sitting tall and dignified, his long orange coat fluffed into a magnificent ruff, his amber eyes gazing out as if he's the featured performer. A warm lamp glows in the corner, potted plants and dried flowers line the shelf above the piano, and baskets of yarn wait nearby.
Cats have extremely sensitive hearing, able to pick up much higher frequencies than people can, so music that sounds gentle to us can feel louder to them. Many cats seem perfectly comfortable with soft, steady tunes, while sudden loud notes or booming bass may send them running. If your cat likes to sit near an instrument, keep the volume moderate and let them leave whenever they want. Cats may also be tempted to walk across piano keys, which is mostly harmless, but closing the fallboard when you're done helps protect both the keys and curious paws from a startling surprise.
Mango clearly has a front-row seat and seems to enjoy every note. Whether he's humming along in his head or simply soaking up Carmen's company, this little concert for two might be the best show in town.






