Pianomania

Behind every great pianist stands a great piano tuner. It may be the musician who gets the applause, but in their maniacal quest for the perfect sound, they’re equals. It’s the circumstances that tend to get in the way—from the temperature in the room to the shape of the panels above the stage, or even just a spec of dust. The piano technician is the one to sort it out, using felt, scrapers, and often self-designed accessories. And then there’s the instrument itself—no two concert grands are the same, after all.

When piano number 109 is sold and leaves Europe, piano technician Stefan Knüpfer is charged with ensuring the sound of the new Steinway (series number 245) surpasses that of its illustrious predecessor. Recordings have already been scheduled. To further complicate matters, pianist Pierre-Laurent Aimard has some special requests: Could the sound evoke Bach’s baroque instrumentation? A hint of harpsichord, perhaps? Some clavichord? And organ?

Besides Aimard, other great pianists such as Alfred Brendel, Rudolf Buchbinder, Julius Drake, and Lang Lang make their appearance in this inspiring tribute to the piano technician’s craft.