Why Classical & why historic temperaments

[Frank Weston]

List,

As long as there are those who appreciate art and beauty, classical music
will survive and increase in popularity.  It may not appeal to the masses,
but long after "music" with popular appeal is dead and forgotten Bach will
still be heard.  Mozart and Beethoven get more play today than they ever
did.  In their life times, no one could plug a CD in and listen at will. 
Today, lots more folks are around to listen, and lots more do.

Pianos will also be around for a long time.  They will evolve, but in 100
years, there will be in instrument that has 88 black and white keys, which
when struck give a beautiful piano sound.  Further, the case for many of
these instruments will probably be beautiful furniture.  What will change
is what happens between when the key is struck and when the music comes
out.  The vintage pianos of the late 19th and early 20th century will still
be prized as minor works of industrial art long after the creations of this
day and age are consigned to the trash heap.

Well temperament will gain in popularity, not because of reasons of
authenticity or history, but because it is a more valid musical concept
than equal temperament.  Well temperament enhances 99% of all music ever
written, and is actually a closer approximation to the intonation employed
by unaccompanied vocalists and strings when they are left to their own
devices.  

For those of you who disagree with these ideas:  I am purchasing vintage
Steinways, Knabes, and Mason & Hamlins.  Please contact me directly so I
can arrange to take these obsolete, dying beasts off of your hands, tune
them to a historical temperament and sell them at a healthy profit to those
few people still alive who still appreciate classical music.

Regards to all,

Frank Weston