Eric Kisch wrote:

>A final observation: I wonder whether today's instruments -- especially
>Steinways -- are more percussive and "brilliant" than the previous
>generation of instruments.

I wonder if some of the difference could be caused by the difference
between electronic(digital?) tuning vs.  old-fashioned tuning by ear.  Or
is that a dumb question? Do concert pianists do their own tuning? I just
thought that the shades of difference between octaves may vary the tone
of the piano from mellow to 'brilliant'.  Is the difference between the
materials used - i.e., wood vs.  plastics; felt vs.  man-made material;
in organs, leather vs.  teflon?

Mary Esterheld