Did the Actor in Green Book Actually Play the Piano?

Green Book, a movie that tells the story of a venues manager named Tony Vallelonga (played by Viggo Mortensen) and a classical pianist, Don Shirley (played by Mahershala Ali), has captivated audiences worldwide. Many viewers wonder whether the actor in the role of the acclaimed pianist actually played the piano. Let us delve into the facts behind this fascinating film.

The Truth Behind the Piano Performance

Contrary to popular belief, Mahershala Ali did not play the piano himself. He worked closely with Kris Bowers, a real-life pianist and the film's musical director, to achieve a convincing portrayal of the classically trained musician. Mahershala Ali aimed to accurately represent Dr. Don Shirley's demeanor and movements while playing the piano.

Key Collaborations and Complications

Alison Don'tis, a reporter from The New York Times, conducted an interview with Kris Bowers, who revealed that while Ali did not play the piano, he spent several months working closely with Bowers to learn the posture and mannerisms essential to portray a pianist with authenticity. According to Bowers, this process involved numerous sessions to ensure Ali's performance was credible and believable.

Moreover, Kris Bowers played a crucial role in the film's score and assistance in the piano scenes. He performed the piano parts in the movie, ensuring the music was authentic and professionally performed. Bowers explained, "Nearly all of it was Kris Bowers consciously and deliberately imitating Shirley's arrangements and playing style after hours of study and practice. One or two songs were transferred from Shirley's recordings." This level of detail and collaboration further emphasizes the commitment to accuracy in the film.

Technical Motivations Behind the Scenes

The editing techniques used in the movie also played a significant role in making the scenes appear authentic. According to Bowers, “The piano was actually played by Kris Bowers and its his hands that can be seen on the black and white keys… The film uses clever edits to hide the fact that it isn't Ali's fingers hitting the keys.” This meticulous editing combined with the extensive coaching provided by Bowers ensures that viewers are immersed in the world of Don Shirley, the accomplished pianist.

Conclusion

While Mahershala Ali did not play the piano in Green Book, his dedication to representing Dr. Don Shirley faithfully and his collaboration with Kris Bowers demonstrate the commitment of the cast and crew to deliver a high-quality, authentic experience for viewers. The combination of Bowers' professional playing and Ali's expert performance results in a convincing portrayal that resonates with audiences.