How the Piano Came to Be

"How the Piano Came to Be" by Ellye Howell Glover is a journey through time, showcasing the development of the piano from ancient stringed instruments to the modern-day instrument. The historical non-fiction work follows the gradual changes and cultural relevance of the piano and its ancestors. It speaks of predecessors to modern pianos, like the lyre, the harp, and the clavichord, and speaks of the innovations leading to the hammer mechanism by Bartolomeo Christofori setting the stage for the instrument we know today. It highlights the cultural significance of the piano throughout history and its slow acceptance in musical circles, celebrating the piano’s profound impact on music and culture.