Sunderland Pianists Aim To Break Guinness World Record For Charity
Written by Sofija Krasauska on 21st November 2025
Sunderland pianists are set to attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest piano relay.
Credit: Sunderland Music City
The Sunderland Music, Arts and Culture Trust has partnered with Sunderland Music City, inviting musicians from all over the city to take part. The event will take place at The Fire Station in the city centre. Running from 8 AM to 7 PM on Sunday, December 7, the 11-hour relay is planned to be historical for our Music City.
Part of this year’s Music Against Child Poverty Campaign, pianists of all ages and abilities will take turns playing continuously in the challenge. The current world record of 169 players was set in Hong Kong in May of this year.
Emily Jackson, Marketing Executive at Sunderland Music City, said: “We need 180 pianists, from enthusiastic beginners to accomplished performers. Players will take turns playing three to five minute pieces of their choice, creating an unbroken relay, and aiming to set a new world record right here in Sunderland.”
Teams of four players can sign up online until November 26.
The night will conclude with a concert at the Fire Station, with headliners like X Factor’s Mickey Callisto, local star Tom A Smith and folk band The Lake Poets.
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All proceeds will go to the charity Love, Amelia. Events and Fundraising Manager, Sophie Hindhaugh, said: “It’s certainly going to be a busy day, but all for a brilliant cause and bringing the local community together in the process.”
The event is free but participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship for the Music Against Child Poverty Campaign.
Last year, the city hosted charity workshops, music writing competitions and a live concert, headlined by The Futureheads, which raised £52,000. This year’s aim is to beat that.
Local businesses can fundraise by purchasing sponsor packages ranging from £50 to £1,000 to help raise money for families and children experiencing poverty.
Offering support around Tyne and Wear, County Durham and Northumberland, in 2024 alone, Love, Amelia helped close to 10,000 families within the local community.
If your team wants to participate, fill out this online form.
For more information contact info@musiccity.uk
