This is the first comprehensive study of the history and technology of the early piano.

The first comprehensive study of Bartolomeo Cristofori's working life, featuring detailed technical documentation about his instruments.

A history of piano pedalling from its beginnings in the eighteenth century to its maturity in the nineteenth century.

Great modern teacher and pianist's concise statement of principles, technique, and related material. Includes 10 musical examples.

Originally published in 1933, this book provides a detailed history of the piano-forte from its invention in Italy in the eighteenth century until the presentation of the first European cast-iron frame for a piano at the 1851 Great Exhibition. Harding also analyses the role of the piano as a replacement for a chamber orchestra and its history as a domestic instrument. The text is richly illustrated with images of pianos produced by a variety of makers over time, as well as with images of piano machinery taken from patent registrations. This thoroughly-researched book will be of value to anyone with an interest in one of the most ubiquitous instruments in the Western world and the history of its development.

English keyboard art from Robertsbridge Codex (c. 1325) to John Field. Illuminating coverage of organ, harpsichord, pianoforte, other instruments; works of Tallis, Byrd, Gibbons, Tomkins, many others. Bibliography.