MMD > Archives > December 2013 > 2013.12.20 > 02Prev  Next


"The Nutcracker" Played on Ampico & Duo-Art
By Paddy Handscombe

For music's sake and the reputation of reproducing pianos, I'm afraid
I have to say that both pianos were sadly disappointing.  A Steinway XR
should sound much better than in the video.  Does no-one in the US know
how or bother to voice reproducing pianos?  And please, owners, have
your pianos tuned before allowing them on YouTube.

The Duo-Art system is capable of far better reproduction with a greater
dynamic range and subtlety than heard, including from this roll.  Percy
Grainger was fastidious about his Duo-Art performances.  A comparable
example of his playing on a Steinway O recorded in a domestic
situation is at  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jOslQGCgw8 

Patrick Handscombe
Wivenhoe, Essex, UK

 [ YouTube frequently mangles the sound of pianos, so I think the
 [ player condition and piano tone shouldn't be judged based on
 [ a YouTube video.  Maybe the piano rebuilder could supply you
 [ a high-fidelity recording for comparison.  -- Robbie


(Message sent Fri 20 Dec 2013, 21:50:20 GMT, from time zone GMT.)

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