Some bedtime reading. This exceptional book traces the histories of Collard & Collard, descendants of 18th-century harpsichord makers; Brinsmead, Challen, and Danemann, rooted in the bustling commercial scene of 19th-century London; and Welmar, which thrived despite starting in the challenging 1930s. Through a blend of human and technical narratives, Laurence, a sixth-generation piano maker and head of John Broadwood & Sons, vividly portrays the key figures - bosses with hands-on factory experience, skilled craftsmen, and innovative designers - whose expertise shaped these firms’ legacies. The book also examines the decline of these companies, all of which closed by 2004, offering a poignant reflection on the loss of a significant British musical heritage.
A recent purchase: an engrossing book on the history of British piano manufacturing
This 136-page work is enriched by Laurence’s personal connections and firsthand accounts, making it a lively and engaging read rather than a dry historical record. It highlights the artistic, technical, and commercial aspects of piano making, with anecdotes from the factory floor and biographies of colourful characters who drove the industry. It helps fill gaps in the often-sketchy online information about British pianos, noting that these instruments, many still available secondhand, offer a richer sound compared to modern pianos from China, Indonesia, or South Korea. The book serves as both an educational resource for piano enthusiasts and a wistful tribute to a once-thriving industry, underscored by Laurence’s deep industry knowledge and access to unique archival material.
Highly recommended for pianists interested in music history or British industrial heritage.