Rod wondered about the Graf piano: >It was the most favoured Viennese piano in the 1820/30's. I can tell you >the Graf is the number one preference for fortepianists playing Beethoven. Yes, but isn't it more important what Beethoven himself preferred? I guess so. >I have heard a few originals and the sound is ideal as far as I am >concerned. Perhaps this particular instrument was not in an ideal >condition also. If you are expecting to hear a Steinway you will be >disappointed regardless - they are two totally different instruments >sonically and technically. Don't worry, I didn't expect a Steinway. On the contrary. Living in the Netherlands where HIP in every respect has become fashionable since the seventies I've listened to many a fortepiano, so I know the sound of those "oldies" very well. But honestly, I didn't like the Graf. By the way, have you ever listened to the CD, released by Jorg Demus, playing on this particular instrument? Also not my cup of tea. Best, Joyce