Review by Gillian May, Berkelouw Staff

This lovely book is one that I read after a customer recommendation.

When T.E. Carhart went to live in Paris he took with him his family, a deep love of music and a talent for writing. Exploring his new neighbourhood he discovers the piano store and workshop that launches his investigation into everything associated with the instrument that for him, and many others, exercises a “voluptuous fantasy”.

In workshop owner Luc, a piano seller-technician-appreciator and speculator, Carhart finds a wealth of knowledge and expertise on all matters piano. He takes us with him as he learns explaining the inner workings of the piano, the history and development of the modern piano, the timbers and other materials used in piano making and the secret marks and signs left by piano-makers. Along the way we witness Carhart’s return to piano lessons, the fallout when the piano tuner arrives in a tipsy condition and a magical evening of tango dancing in the candlelit piano atelier.

Carhart writes with a light touch and deftly combines factual and technical information with character portraits and skilful evocation of atmosphere. I enjoyed this book immensely.