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An elderly man in a cream cardigan plays an upright piano while a ruddy Abyssinian cat sits at the end of the keyboard. 19 / 31

Grandpa Otis Sat Down at the Old Piano. Saffron Claimed the Best Seat.

AI imageabyssinian catpianomusic

The old upright piano has seen decades of songs, and this afternoon Grandpa Otis is adding one more. Seated on a worn wooden bench in a cream cable-knit cardigan, he presses the keys with slow, careful fingers, eyes on his hands. At the far end of the keyboard, Saffron has settled herself right where the wood meets the keys, sitting tall with her tail curled down the side and her ears swiveled toward the sound. Shelves crammed with books, a basket, potted plants, and a pair of reading glasses on top of the piano complete the warm, lived-in room.

Cats have excellent hearing, able to pick up a wider range of sounds than people can, which is why some are fascinated by music while others prefer to leave the room. Soft, gentle melodies tend to be more comfortable for them than loud or sudden notes. Abyssinians are curious and social, so it's no surprise that Saffron wants to be close to the action. If your cat likes to sit on or near a piano, keep the volume moderate and let the cat move away whenever it wants. Many cats also enjoy walking across the keys, which can make for some surprising impromptu concerts, so closing the lid when you're done helps protect both the instrument and sleepy paws.

Playing music is a wonderful hobby for older adults, engaging memory, coordination, and creativity. An attentive pet makes a fine audience.

Grandpa Otis may be playing for himself, but Saffron's front-row seat suggests she considers this a private concert just for her.

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