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Note by Note: The Making of Steinway L1037

Ben Niles, 2006

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The most thoroughly handcrafted instruments in the world, Steinway pianos are as unique and full of personality as the world-class musicians who play them.

In this age of mass-production and consumption, however, the craftsmen who make them are a dying breed. Note by Note follows the creation of a single Steinway concert grand piano, L1037, from the forest floor to the concert hall. The piano�s complex journey spans 12 months, 12,000 parts, 450 craftsmen, and countless hours of fine-tuned labor. Eloquent musicians (including Harry Connick, Jr., Pierre-Laurent Aimard, Hank Jones, and Lang Lang) audition prospective pianos and share their passions, but the film is at its most gripping when watching a small army of skilled laborers ply their trade in much the same way as their predecessors a century ago. (80 mins., video)

Pre-Performance Talk
Film/Video Theater | 6:30 PM
Friday, April 18
Free

Come early for a talk with WOSU Radio host Christopher Purdy, as he discusses the film and thoughts on the Steinway's impact upon classical music and culture as a whole.

Also on display in our lobby will be an actual Steinway piano, being performed live before the film. Click here to see photos.

Note by Note: The Making of Steinway L1037 (trailer):

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Note by Note: The Making of Steinway L1037