Went to Caramoor to hear my friend Gabriela Montero. Originally scheduled for the Spanish Courtyard, it was moved to the Venetian theater because of rain probability. She played wonderfully but it was not a good setting for a recital and the piano made me think of everything I hate about the Steinway sound. Loud, clangy with absolutely no color difference between pp and ff. On the other hand, it was beautifully tuned and, giving perhaps credit where none is due, may have been set up for orchestral playing. But still, why does anybody think that kind of tone is desirable?

The idea came from a discussion with Don and Sam Bennett of PianoWorks in Atlanta. PianoWorks is a great dealer, Don is a real piano guy and his son Sam is bringing technology to the company in a thoughtful way. The thinking was that there was insight and suggestions that PianGuys have that can help their customers and help bring some attention to their dealership.  It occurred to me that it could be a vehicle for me to help my dealers as well as give Don some encouragement to actually start the blog. Nothing like a little friendly competition. I will probably include some personal stuff because, to be honest, I don’t think I have all THAT many insights and everybody loves kittens and kids, right?

Welcome to my Piano Guy blog. Ah, great…just what the world needs, another blog. Well, this has a point beyond personal ego. Perhaps something here will help the dealers I work with, customers or other piano guys and gals.Â