Dictionary for the Modern Pianist

Stephen Siek is a pianist, musicologist, and piano historian. He is former professor of music at Wittenberg University and is author of England's Piano Sage: The Life and Teachings of Tobias Matthay (2011).

• Pitch ChartPrefaceA Few Words About RecordingsThe DictionaryAppendixesAppendix ADictionary Entries Listed by CategoryAppendix B A Brief Overview of the Acoustic Piano’s Action for the PerformerAppendix CHistorical Pianos and their Relationship to the Standard Repertoireby Edmund Michael FrederickAppendix DDigital Pianos in the Modern Pianist’s World by S. David Berry Appendix EThe Player Piano and the Reproducing Piano by Robert J. Berkman

A Dictionary for the Modern Pianist is an important reference work for public or academic libraries and university music departments as well as the private collections of pianists and teachers. Most readers will easily understand the terminology and engage with the clear and straightforward writing. The reading level is appropriate for both secondary and collegiate audiences, and the sturdy hardcopy binding will withstand use from a number of students perusing the volume for assignments or just leisure reading. Piano teachers discussing the performance practices of particular compositions could refer to the book’s entries on specific pianists known for performing those works. Also, while demonstrating a performance technique, they could consult an illustration of the components of the piano to illuminate how to produce specific sounds or effects. Beyond library and department offices, this is a handy book to keep in the piano studio for pedagogical purposes.