Name: Great piano performances, recreated
Uploaded: 2008-08-26T01:00:00Z
Duration: 13 min 20 s
Description: Imagine hearing great, departed pianists play again today, just as they would in person. John Q. Walker demonstrates how recordings can be analyzed for precise keystrokes and pedal motions, then played back on computer-controlled grand pianos.

Imagine hearing great, departed pianists play again today, just as they would in person. John Q. Walker demonstrates how recordings can be analyzed for precise keystrokes and pedal motions, then played back on computer-controlled grand pianos.

Great piano performances, recreated

Digitally reconstructing performances from old recordings now allows legendary pianists to play for new audiences as if in person. Engineers analyze the tiniest details of each keystroke and pedal, feeding this data to robotic pianos that bring the music to life again. In one vivid example, Glenn Gould's 1955 performance was replayed note-for-note on a modern instrument, letting listeners experience his artistry with astonishing clarity. This breakthrough transforms listening from a static encounter into a deeply immersive, ever-evolving experience.