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A grandma in a green cardigan plays an old wooden upright piano while a Jack Russell Terrier sits on the piano bench. 28 / 28

Grandma Sat Down to Play Her Old Piano. Somebody Had Already Taken the Bench.

AI imagejack russell terrierpianomusic at home

The upright piano has seen a lot of years. Its dark wood is worn at the edges, a few keys have yellowed, and a gray throw is folded on top next to a blue cup of pencils and a pair of reading glasses. Odessa leans in from the side in her green cardigan, fingers resting on the keys, eyes on the sheet music propped on the stand. She has had to perch at the very edge, though, because Pip has taken the middle of the bench. He sits tall and proud with his paws planted, looking out at the room like a concert pianist waiting for applause.

Many dogs enjoy being near their people during music time, though reactions to sound vary a lot. Some dogs seem soothed by soft, slow music, while loud or high notes can make others uneasy. Watch your dog's body language: relaxed ears and a loose posture suggest comfort, while pinned-back ears, lip licking, or leaving the room suggest it is too much. Playing music for yourself has its own rewards too, and many older adults enjoy returning to an instrument they learned years ago, picking out old favorites at their own pace. If your dog likes to sit on the bench, make sure it is sturdy and that hopping down is easy.

Odessa does not seem to mind sharing the spotlight. Maybe she will play something slow and gentle, and maybe Pip will tilt his head at the low notes. Either way, the little living room concert has an audience of one very dedicated fan.

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