88 Keys: The Making of a Steinway Piano
by Miles Chapin

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Book Reviews of 88 Keys: The Making of a Steinway Piano

Book Review: An entertaining book for all readers
Summary: 5 Stars

A special surprise in this book is its clear, accurate, and easily understood discussion of the science of the piano, which the Steinways advanced through many important contributions. All too often, this topic is handled so badly that facts are obscured and readers are intimidated. Technophobes who are ill at ease with physics and mathematics can finally relax! Chapin's explanation is factual yet thoroughly accessible, and one feels completely safe in his hands. His explanations entertain even as they inform, and they are bound to enrich the reader's appreciation of the piano's music. Moreover, his explanation of the Steinway manufacturing process is so clear and understandable that one wishes Chapin's style could become a model for other writers on technical subjects.

Regarding Prato's colorful illustrations, I must confess that I was frankly hostile at first. I thought they gave the book the appearance of a children's story rather than a serious work for intelligent adults. Photos, I thought, would have been much better: clearer, more detailed, and more accurate. But I was wrong on every count. I came to see that Prato's illustrations are a superb complement to Chapin's text, bringing warmth and passion to a topic that might otherwise seem dry. They personalize this book, constraining it to a human scale, and making it accessible to readers of all ages. Even the youngest reader will enjoy them. Moreover...and much to my surprise...they are stunningly accurate, and due to Prato's effective use of color to create contrast between various components, they seem even more detailed than photos.

I strongly recommend this book to general readers of all ages. It would make an excellent gift that is certain to inspire a player of any ability. Young children will need some adult help with technical sections, but I cannot think of a better way to encourage them to set high goals. After all, success at the piano almost always leads to a closer and more personal relationship with Steinway, as so many renowned artists can attest. This book lets that relationship begin today at a very small fraction of the cost of a Steinway D.

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