On Feb. 26-27, Raleigh, N.C.-area piano students staged a massive playathon in support of the search for a cure for Batten disease. This marked the third year of the playathon; the 2010 edition took place at Ruggero Piano and was so successful that this year’s event grew to four venues. More than 180 students and 15 teachers participated.

“I have not been part of a more positive, uplifting event than the playathon for Taylor’s Tale,” said Pamela Tsai, a local piano teacher and co-chair of the event.

Added Polly Greene, another teacher and longtime friend of Taylor’s family, “The playathon is an example of what music can do to improve the lives of not only our students, but the lives of others. It is a way for our students to use their musical talent to write a happy ending to the tragic tale that is Batten disease.”

Students played to a full house both days and raised approximately $3,000 for Taylor’s Tale. Shortly after the conclusion of the event, the organizers announced that they have already begun planning a fourth installment for 2012.

Taylor’s Tale would like to thank all of the wonderful students and teachers who participated in the playathon as well as the four host venues: Maus Piano Company, Burrage Music Company, Glenaire Retirement Community and Ruggero Piano.