Encyclopedia of keyboard instruments /

The first volume of a projected three-volume encyclopedia devoted to keyboard instruments, this timely work has been published just prior to the 300th anniversary of the invention of the piano. Palmieri (emeritus, Kent State Univ.) has also published Piano Information Guide: An Aid to Research (CH, Jul'89), a very useful companion volume. The signed articles in this new work, although arranged in the usual A to Z format, vary in length, some being concise definitions, while others explore the topic in depth. Comprehensive in scope, the work emphasizes the historical evolution of the piano, including articles on the most important piano makers in various countries, builders, companies, and those composers most directly influencing the development of the instrument. Technical terms ranging from "acoustical block" to "wrest plank" are explained with an excellent system of cross-references and numerous illustrations. Selected bibliographies follow many of the articles, and a detailed index leads the user to articles that mention the people or terms listed. Beautifully printed and bound, this should be considered an essential purchase for all academic and for large public libraries. L. Smith; University of Western Ontario