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Published 2006, from Tatchley Books a new, definite history of the Broadwood company, emphasising the important role of square pianos as the principal product line. In hardback, 205 pages, more than 60 illustrations; incorporates a revisionist biography of John Broadwood, Price £40.     more information

UK clients: claim free delivery, by sending a cheque for £40 to 'Tatchley Books' at 334 Prestbury Road, Cheltenham, GL52 3DD.  Phone: 01242 517192

Outside UK, you can pay by major credit cards; click below for Goodmusic Publishing (Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire)

Goodmusic Publishing

Reviews:

Kenneth Mobbs, reviewing in the Galpin Society Journal

...a most worthwhile book. Mr Cole is a fluent writer, happy in his choice of words, and every page reveals accurate, detailed observation. The book is required reading for keyboard organologists, and even social historians, and should take its place on the library shelves of museums, universities, and every home which still proudly boasts a Broadwood square piano.

Comments from other readers:

Alan Crumpler, Musical Instrument Maker: I sat down to begin reading it at 10.30 pm, ... and I was still absorbed in it at 2.30am!

David Law, Musical Instrument Maker: Really enjoyed it. It reads like an Agatha Christie!

Dr Andreas Beurmann, Collector and Keyboard Player, Hamburg: Marvellous!  I return to read your book again and again!

The PIANOFORTE in the CLASSICAL ERA

MICHAEL COLE

(Oxford University Press 1998)

CONTENTS:

Here is a comprehensive survey of the construction and musical uses of the piano from 1760 to 1820, based on original research, enlivened with biographical and historical information, relevant to the music and the instruments. There is in-depth discussion of all types of pianos – squares, uprights, and grands – of English, French and German designs – not forgetting compound instruments that combined pianos with harpsichords and organs. A complete chapter giving full information on Mozart’s fortepiano, never previously published, demands a complete reassessment of the basis for the fortepiano revival as applied to Mozart's music. Analysis of touch and tone in old pianos produces many surprising conclusions. These and many other topics are explored more fully than in any previous publication. Three appendices give texts of little know original sources.

Regrettably, since the sell out of the first print run, Oxford University Press supply orders only on their 'Print on Demand' system. This can take ten weeks. Used copies can be purchased on the internet. email mcolepianos@btinternet.com.

  Some reviews and comments

'This is an important and thought provoking book.'   Reviewed by Kenneth Mobbs in the Galpin  Society Journal.

'I feel I must write to say how very much I have enjoyed reading your book.'  Peter Bavington, Instrument maker, London.

'I have enjoyed reading your book immensely.'  Dr Albert Rice, Curator, Claremont, California.

'No less than stunning, The command of historical detail stretches current standards of the piano organology literature.'   John Watson, Conservator, Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Available from Tatchley Books at £60 plus post and packing. 334 Prestbury Road, Cheltenham, GL52 3DD.  01242 517192