Cypriot pianist Manolis Neophytou criticizes Limassol Municipality over piano purchase

Cypriot pianist Manolis Neophytou has publicly criticized Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis and the municipal committee regarding the procurement of a grand piano for the Panos Solomonidis Hall. Neophytou states that in December 2024, he was invited by the Mayor to provide professional advice on selecting an appropriate instrument at no cost. He reports that he researched multiple options and submitted proposals after visiting several locations, but claims his input was subsequently ignored. The pianist alleges that he sent four messages to the Mayor without receiving a response. He further criticizes the official tender process, arguing that it focused on the lowest price rather than quality. While a budget of up to 30,000 euros was allegedly approved, Neophytou reports that a piano costing approximately 5,000 euros was ultimately purchased. He maintains that the Panos Solomonidis Hall could serve as an affordable venue for artists, with rental costs around 210 euros per night, unlike other local venues that charge upwards of 1,500 euros.