In a message dated 03/29/2000 10:51:58 AM Central Standard Time, owner-pianotech-digest@ptg.org writes: << Subject: Re: pianotech-digest V2000 #292--New Publication Stan, Silbermann executed his own designs, as well as having used Christofori's models as bases. Harding reports the more English mopstick tangent was an invention either by Silbermann or Zumpe, and that Silbermann also contributed to the Prellmechanik so important to Viennese instruments. I glanced through Koster's summary of Backer's account of Zumpe, and no mention is made of Silbermann. I think the influence of Christofori is obvious to any of our historians and to the makers themselves (perhaps excepting Schroeter), but Koster's claim suggests Silbermann's only reached to the Viennese tradition, which I believe is in error. In fact, his proof seems to be speculation based upon a single, and questionable suggestion that an early English grand completely was strung in brass in the Italian (harpsichord) tradition; if I understand this correctly, it is a disappointing conclusion from one whose position should demand higher standards in research than someone, such as myself, whose interest is relatively new. Regards, Clark >> Clark, Most interesting, and thank you for taking the time to respond. More things to think about, which I greatly appreciate. Stan Ryberg Barrington IL
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