Grand designs
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.If you know a fine way to treat a Steinway, then get your ivory- tickling digits down to Steinway Hall this weekend for an unprecedented open-house event at the legendary home of the piano. Three showrooms will be laden with more than 55 gleaming examples of the piano-maker's art, from modest uprights to concert grands, which can cost up to pounds 69,000. But it's free to mosey along and pick out "Fur Elise" on any of these prime sex-on-legs artefacts - including those recently played by Kissin, Pogorelich and Schiff - and throughout the weekend there will be presentations on piano design and construction from master craftsmen. Restoration, restringing and polishing will all be demonstrated, and members of the public are welcome to try their hand at tuning a piano. This weekend will be a rare spot in the limelight for the unsung piano technicians who work together with performers for up to three months before a concert, getting to know the players' precise requirements, and then have to pick up the pieces afterwards - many celebrated pianists, like Beethoven, have been reputed to leave their instruments in completely unplayable condition after a few hours at the stool. Also on show will be examples of the Boston, Steinway's new range of more affordable pianos, which start at a measly pounds 4,000 for an upright - less than a car, and a lot better for the environment.
STEVEN POOLE
Steinway Hall, 44 Marylebone Lane, London W1 (0171-487 3391) 10.30am- 4.30pm Sat, Sun, free
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments