Disklavier

I'd like to call attention to a recently published book that will 
interest piano buffs: "The Piano Shop on the Left Bank: Discovering a 
Forgotten Passion in a Paris Atelier" written by Thad Carhart.  The 
paperback is published by Random House at $13.95 US.

This book is one man's personal account, not a catechism, on pianos. 
Thad writes about his decision and considerations in buying a used piano 
in Paris.  Unlike many of us who have bought a piano, Thad experiences a 
warm and helpful continuing close relationship with the seller.

Thad writes about good and bad children's piano teachers and what he 
looked for in finding a sensitive teacher for himself--a serious adult 
who wished to play for his own pleasure.  Thad includes a light history 
of the piano industry, talks about brands---especially of old 
manufacturers--and topics such as piano construction, tuning, voicing, 
and life within a Paris neighborhood piano restoral shop,

I found the book eminently readable.
-- 
Robert Welcyng
Anchorage, Alaska