Customer Reviews

Famous Pianists and Their Technique, New Edition

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Reginald Gerig has done a huge and wonderful job of amassing a complete history of the development of piano technique. I discovered this book while still in University and still use it today, 20 years later. Gerig doesn't just give you historical facts, but real analysis of the actual technical components of different schools of technique - there is practical information in here! Also, the valuable first section investigates the antecedents of piano technique in harpsichord technique, an aspect of the story too often overlooked.

Gerig gives you the whole picture - a 'must have' for any pianist's library.

Alan Fraser, author of The Craft of Piano Playing

Gerig's book on the history of piano teaching is a major work full of valuable information and is indispensable for any class on piano pedagogy. Gerig has done a great service to the piano teaching community by providing background information on the contributions to teaching by all the important figures in recent history, some well known and some lesser known but equally important. His insights into their contributions are well thought out and the bibliography is extensive. Highest recommendation.

I have a lot of material regarding piano pedagogy. This book digs down deep into history and reveals amazing details regarding technique and practice methods that seem to be left out of other books. In addition, it is easy to read but very detailed regarding historical fact.

Just reading this book will make you more aware of your piano technique, and therefore improve it. If the desire is there, this book is the tool you need. And the first person narratives from contemporaries of the young Mozart, Chopin and Liszt are fascinating and inspiring.

This book was way above my expectations. In an entertaining and absorbing manner it traces the history of piano performers, teachers and pedagogic methods from the beginnings of the pianoforte through to the 20th century. It is very well organized and has extensive coverage and a wonderful index. What struck me most was the number of detailed quotes, letters and reminiscences from various people who actually heard the playing of the greats. The development of the different styles and techniques is brought to life by this approach. I found myself reading the book in short sections and then mulling on what I had read; finding that it enhanced my playing, and opened up new possibilities for study and improvement. The book lends itself to multiple readings and becomes a reference book once completed. I would recommend this heartily not only to piano students and teachers alike, but also to music enthusiasts who wish to improve their listening skills. It is truly a classic.