A Coveted Possession: The Rise and Fall of the Piano in Australia

Discover the rich cultural history of the piano in Australia with 'A Coveted Possession: The Rise and Fall of the Piano in Australia.' This captivating trade paperback, published by Black Inc in 2018, dives into the fascinating journey of the piano from its arrival at Sydney Cove in the late 18th century to its remarkable re-emergence in contemporary Australian society. Spanning 288 pages, this book showcases the piano's significant role in various Australian contexts—from goldfields to war frontlines, as well as its impact during the Federation era.

Explore how the piano, once a central pillar of family life, shaped social interactions, influenced national identity, and represented aspirations across generations. With its iron frame and elegant design, the piano was not just an instrument but an essential part of home life, reflecting class, education, and leisure.

Critically acclaimed by Professor Julia Horne, this historical account cleverly intertwines visual, sensual, and sonic elements, enriching our understanding of the piano’s sociocultural significance in Australia. Perfect for music lovers, historians, and anyone intrigued by Australia's diverse cultural landscape. Experience the story of a cherished instrument that continues to resonate within our communities today.

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Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781863959919
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2018
Publisher: Black Inc
Pages: 288


Description:
The intriguing cultural history of the piano in Australia

From the instruments that floated ashore at Sydney Cove in the late eighteenth century to the resurrection of derelict heirlooms in the streets of twenty-first-century Melbourne, A Coveted Possession tells the curious story of Australia's intimate and intrepid relationship with the piano. It charts the piano's fascinating adventures across Australia - on the goldfields, at the frontlines of war, in the manufacturing hubs of the Federation era, and in the hands of the makers, entrepreneurs, teachers and virtuosos of the twentieth history - to illuminate the many worlds in which the ivories were tinkled.
Before electricity brought us the gramophone, the radio and eventually the TV, the piano was central to family and community life. With its iron frame, polished surfaces and ivory keys, an upright piano in the home was a modern industrial machine, a musical instrument and a treasured member of the household, conveying powerful messages about class, education, leisure, national identity and intergenerational history.
'Michael Atherton cleverly weaves visual, sensual and sonic elements into the piano's sociocultural history, adding a rich layer to our knowledge of the piano in Australia.'
-Professor Julia Horne, historian

This product has FREE shipping however combined shipping for other products is not available with this item. Please allow up to 10 days for shipping.