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The Piano plays itself: Welte-Mignon & the Mechanical Music

The Piano plays itself: Welte-Mignon & the Mechanical Music

Documentary

A film by Oliver Becker

Production Date: 01/01/1998

Duration42 Min

Video Formats

When unveiled in 1904, the Welte-Mignon reproducing piano was a sensation: a new technology which several of the greatest composers and musicians of the day – many who otherwise remain unrecorded – set down their performances for posterity. With the help of historical footage and extensive interview material, Oliver Becker's fascinating documentary explores the Welte-Mignon's origins and history – as well as the implications it had for composers and performers.

Soloists
Johanna Stinnez (Soprano), Walter Gieseking (Piano)