History Extra podcast The piano: a musical history
Jul 20, 2021
In this episode, Susan Tomes, a renowned British pianist and author, takes us on a journey through the enchanting history of the piano. She unveils how the piano replaced the harpsichord, emphasizing its versatility and impact on household culture. Discover how composers like Bach and Chopin expanded the instrument's capabilities and the challenges faced by women in music. Susan also discusses the rich influence of jazz and ragtime, showcasing iconic performances that highlight the piano's evolution. A captivating exploration awaits!
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How The Piano Changed Sound And Venue
- The piano evolved from harpsichord and clavichord by replacing plucking with felt-covered hammers.
- That change created greater volume and tonal nuance suited to larger rooms and public concerts.
Piano Enables Solo Polyphony
- The piano's ability to support two independent hands lets one player realize multiple musical strands.
- That independence made solo piano repertoire uniquely versatile and popular across centuries.
Broadwood's Piano Gift To Beethoven
- John Broadwood sent a piano to Beethoven in Vienna, which excited Beethoven and influenced his writing.
- Broadwood's gift shows how instrument makers shaped composers' creative possibilities.
