A self-taught Liverpool pianist has been honoured with a plaque in the city centre.
Brad Kella busked in Liverpool One more than a decade ago before winning Channel 4’s The Piano and achieving success with a No.1 Classical album.
The Bootle-born performer was chosen for the second edition of the reality series after being spotted in an online video playing at the leisure and shopping venue.
Liverpool One installed Brad’s blue plaque at the spot where he previously busked on Thursday (July 16) to mark the start of their annual Tickle The Ivories festival.
Brad said: “It’s always a joy to perform at Liverpool One – I still get the same buzz from it now as I did all those years ago.
“There’s something special about the crowds and the atmosphere that’s a winning combination.
“I’m so proud to be from Liverpool and the city’s support means the world to me.
“Whether I’m busking or performing to a sold-out crowd at the Philharmonic Hall, it’s amazing to see people’s reactions and be able to make people happy through my music, especially in my hometown.
“There’s no other city that backs their own like Liverpool and I’m so grateful for this honour and the support the city continues to show me.”
Tickle The Ivories has been running since 2011 and brings live piano performances into the city with pianos installed across Liverpool One to play free of charge.
Brendan Hattam, Centre Director at Liverpool One, said: “We’re so proud to mark the special spot where Brad first performed here – it’s been a remarkable journey and we’re honoured to have played a small part in it.
“Brad’s story is truly inspiring and shows the power in providing a platform for local artists and emerging talent.
“We’re keen to continue to offer these opportunities and that’s what Tickle the Ivories is all about – whether you’re popping in with your kids so they can play a piano for the first time, are an established musician wanting to entertain the crowds, or just want to enjoy the performances, everyone’s welcome.”
Tickle The Ivories runs from now until mid-September.
Members of the public can turn up and play any of the pianos, or can pre-book online via the website at liverpool-one.com.