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The Piano

A History in 100 Pieces
By Susan Tomes
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Piano by Susan Tomes is an insightful exploration of the piano's cultural and historical significance. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and historical narrative, Tomes delves into the instrument's profound impact on music, its evolution over time, and its lasting influence on musicians and audiences alike. The book richly illuminates the world of classical music and the intricate relationship between artist and instrument.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3099
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you are fascinated by the intricate world of piano music and its cultural significance. Susan Tomes offers a captivating exploration of piano playing, sharing personal anecdotes and insights that shed light on the emotional and artistic journey of a pianist. It's perfect for those who appreciate a blend of music history and personal narrative.

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A fascinating history of the piano explored through 100 pieces chosen by one of the UK’s most renowned concert pianists

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A fascinating history of the piano explored through 100 pieces chosen by one of the UK’s most renowned concert pianists

Tomes . . . casts her net widely, taking in chamber music and concertos, knotty avant-garde masterworks and (most welcome) jazz. — Richard Fairman, Financial Times, “Best Books of 2021: Classical Music”

[One of] the most beautiful books I got my hands on this year. . . . About the shaping of this maddening, glorious, unconquerable instrument. — Jenny Colgan, Spectator, “Books of the Year”

An astonishingly versatile instrument, the piano allows just two hands to play music of great complexity and subtlety. For more than two hundred years, it has brought solo and collaborative music into homes and concert halls and has inspired composers in every musical genre—from classical to jazz and light music.

Charting the development of the piano from the late eighteenth century to the present day, pianist and writer Susan Tomes takes the reader with her on a personal journey through 100 pieces including solo works, chamber music, concertos, and jazz. Her choices include composers such as Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Robert Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Debussy, Gershwin, and Philip Glass.

Looking at this history from a modern performer’s perspective, she acknowledges neglected women composers and players including Fanny Mendelssohn, Maria Szymanowska, Clara Schumann, and Amy Beach.

The Piano is not only an exploration of the instrument’s history but also a celebration of its incredible ability to connect with musicians and audiences alike.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Piano by Susan Tomes is lauded for its insightful and comprehensive exploration of the piano's history and influence across various music genres, including classical and jazz. Critics appreciate Tomes' ability to enliven great works with historical and musical context, presenting a rewarding study filled with personal insights and elegant writing. The book is praised as a valuable, inspiring resource for pianophiles, musicians, and music enthusiasts alike, offering a celebratory look at an instrument that has captivated audiences for centuries.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780300267051

Publisher: Yale University Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 25 October 2022

Country: United States

Imprint: Yale University Press

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 127.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 400

Collections

Arts & Culture Music & Musicians Non-Fiction Susan Tomes

About the Author

Susan Tomes is a concert pianist and writer. Renowned both as a soloist and as the pianist of Domus and the Florestan Trio, she is the author of numerous works including Beyond the Notes, Sleeping in Temples, and Speaking the Piano.

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