Some links today to things interesting, sad and inspiring.
Over at The Runcible Bin, Mrs. Lear is talking about pantries (you should see my pantry - no, really you shouldn't as it needs a proper sort out and is not a pretty sight just now, so perhaps I should get that book!).
Today sees the closure of Britain's last piano factory - how times have changed from the days when pianos were almost as ubiquitous as televisions are now. If you are at all interested in piano music (or in Paris) I thoroughly recommend T. E. Carhart's The Piano Shop on the Left Bank (and Dark Puss, you'll be pleased to know that I was playing the other day, and the Poulenc was fairly respectable).
Lastly, while flicking through an old magazine yesterday I found an article about this treasure-house of trimmings, ribbons, buttons and other pretty things, and I know there are a lot of us who enjoy a virtual browse of this kind!
It's not your part of the Poulenc that worries me! Fantastic to know you spent some time at the keyboard, I have just this minute finished my flute practice (no Poulenc, mainly exercises, some Handel). Where I live in London was once a major centre of piano production, presumably for all the young ladies and gentlemen who inhabited the lovely new upper-middle/middle class stuccoed terraces. Many of the factories are still here, cunnigly hidden in mews, but none make them anymore of course.
I might (just) become involved in some piano making myself in connection with the avant-garde classical pianist SN. Watch this space!
Posted by: Dark Puss | 30 October 2009 at 10:10 AM
I see that Mrs Lear is a fan of steampunk! I wonder if she knows of the wonderful model Kato and her contributions to steampunk fashion?
Posted by: Dark Puss | 30 October 2009 at 10:32 AM
That is sad that the piano factory is closing. Heading over to the runcible bin soon thanks for the link.
Posted by: Jennifer | 30 October 2009 at 02:34 PM
and what about
http://www.vvrouleaux.com/index/page.asp?page_no=4
Posted by: Ruth | 30 October 2009 at 11:35 PM
I guess I'm rather dense tonight Ruth! What about VV Rouleaux page 4?
Posted by: Dark Puss | 31 October 2009 at 09:22 PM
The Piano Shop on the Left Bank is a beautiful book. I took with me to Mexico 4 Thanksgivings ago with my intentions of leaving it behind for someone to fall upon but I just couldn't do it. I always have great intentions to do that but I have a hard time parting with books, especially wonderful ones!
Posted by: Melissa! | 09 November 2009 at 02:28 PM