I think the pre-electronics, pre-recording, pre-broadcasting composers had the isolation necessary for concentration and creativity.
Back in those days if you wanted to hear music you had to go where people played it. Isn’t it interesting that to this day none of the orchestral instruments need to be plugged in.
It amazes me that the piano, with 88 identical hammer-driving mechanisms, was invented and manufactured way back then. The action is the same today as it was a hundred years ago (I think). The grand has a more complex action than uprights. These actions, when in good condition, work perfectly and silently and are nothing but wood, felt and a little metal.
It still amazes me that I can listen to Beethoven anytime, anywhere, at the push of a button. I often wish he could come back and hear himself on modern equipment.
| What you say is true. Our modern age has not really improved on the acoustic piano. My daughter took lessons and could play some beautiful pieces, but now that she's gone we sold our piano and it was sad to see it go. I think you can isolate yourself successfully today, but it takes a little more effort. I don't own a personal cell phone because I find it a distraction. But nevertheless, I am addicted to FR :- ) |