Posts Tagged: Leipzig Germany

JOHANN CHRISTIAN BACH (1735-1782) Duet for two pianofortes in G major Op. 15 1. Allegro Performed by Christopher Hogwood Christophe Rousset, pianofortes *Johann Christian Bach was a composer of the Classical era, the eleventh and youngest son of Johann Sebastian Bach. He is sometimes referred to as ‘the London Bach’ or ‘the English Bach’, due to his time spent living there. He is noted for influencing the concerto style of Mozart. Johann Christian Bach was born on September 5, 1735 to Johann Sebastian and Anna Magdalena Bach in Leipzig, Germany. His distinguished father was already 50 at the time of his birth, which would perhaps contribute to the sharp differences between his music and that of his father. Even so, his father first instructed him in music until he died. After his father’s death, when Johann Christian was 15, he worked with his second oldest brother Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, considered at the time to be the most musically gifted of Bach’s sons. He enjoyed a promising career, first as a composer then as a performer playing alongside Carl Friedrich Abel, a notable player of the viola da gamba. He composed cantatas, chamber music, keyboard and orchestral works, operas and symphonies. Bach lived in Italy for many years starting in 1756, first studying with Padre Martini in Bologna and later with Giovanni Battista Sammartini. He became an organist at a cathedral in Milan in 1760. During his time in Italy he converted from Lutheranism to Catholicism. In 1762 …

Buying a piano might not seem a daunting task to most of us. However, the real difficulty begins when one actually lands in a piano showroom. With multiple brands available today, it becomes increasingly difficult to settle for the right choice. Few basic rules should be considered while making your piano purchase; one of them being the presence of a registered piano technician, not a piano tuner, for checking the instrument before the final transaction. Besides, a little homework on your desired purchase is necessary so as to be familiar with the pros and cons of each brand.

Baldwin Pianos – Baldwin pianos have been in vogue since the 1890′s and it continues to be one of the best quality piano brands in the market today. Baldwin offers both acoustic and digital pianos in upright and grand cabinets.

Steinway Pianos – It’s the dream of many to own a Steinway piano and rightly so. Steinway & Sons are known for their world-class quality and have been in the business since the 1850′s.

Mason & Hamlin Pianos – The Mason & Hamlin piano company was established in 1854. After changing owners several times and filing for bankruptcy in 1995, Mason & Hamlin pianos are back and remain in the forefront of piano making and innovation.

Schimmel Pianos – The Schimmel piano company was founded in 1885 in Leipzig, Germany. Even today, Schimmel pianos are trusted for their high quality and craftsmanship.

Bösendorfer Pianos – Bösendorfer was founded by Ignaz Bösendorfer in 1828. Since then, the brand is considered one of the best Viennese-made pianos in the market.

Kawai Pianos – The Kawai piano manufacturing company is truly one of Japan’s prides. The craftsmanship, mixed with innovation and technology, makes it one of the premier piano manufacturing firms.

Roland Pianos – Roland is famous for its wide range of equipments including home keyboards, digital pianos, synthesizers, guitar products, electronic percussion kits, digital recording equipment, amplifiers, audio processing devices, and other electronic musical instruments.

Yamaha Pianos – Since the founder Torakusu Yamaha built Japan’s first piano in 1900, Yamaha has built up a large line of acoustic and digital pianos.

Samick Pianos- Samick is the first piano maker to achieve ISO 9002 certification. Samick piano value can easily be assessed from its exquisite craftsmanship and warm European voice.

The above-mentioned brands are some of the best known in the piano manufacturing industry. But ensure that you enjoy its sound quality as the piano will be your prized possession, not an investment.