The Lost Pianos of Siberia cover art

The Lost Pianos of Siberia

In Search of Russia’s Remarkable Survivors

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The Lost Pianos of Siberia

By: Sophy Roberts
Narrated by: Catherine Bailey
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About this listen

Brought to you by Penguin.

Siberia’s story is traditionally one of exiles, penal colonies and unmarked graves. Yet there is another tale to tell.

Dotted throughout this remote land are pianos - grand instruments created during the boom years of the 19th century and humble, Soviet-made uprights that found their way into equally modest homes. They tell the story of how, ever since entering Russian culture under the influence of Catherine the Great, piano music has run through the country like blood.

How these pianos travelled into this snow-bound wilderness in the first place is testament to noble acts of fortitude by governors, adventurers and exiles. That stately instruments might still exist in such a hostile landscape is remarkable. That they are still capable of making music in far-flung villages is nothing less than a miracle.

But this is Siberia, where people can endure the worst of the world — and where music reveals a deep humanity in the last place on earth you would expect to find it.

©2019 Sophy Roberts (P)2019 Penguin Audio Russia Soviet Union Piano Imperialism

Critic Reviews

"A sparkling debut by an outstanding and gifted author. A brilliant guide to Russia of the past and the present, set around an extraordinary search for the heart, soul and lost keyboards of centuries gone by." (Peter Frankopan)

"An extraordinary, cadenced journey into music, exile and landscape." (Edmund De Waal)

"A masterpiece of modern travel literature with words that sing from its pages. A definitive exploration of Russia's wild east." (Levison Wood)

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I loved this and highly recommend. Well-researched and backed with accounts from real people. These stories would die if not retold by people like Sophy Roberts.

History, first-hand stories, music and emotion

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l have listened to the book twice now. and I am going back for a third

great

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I found it best to savour each piano as a self-contained history. Initally, one is tempted to just let the chapters roll out, but listening like that is like looking at a far distant Vista which on closer examination begins to reveal the intricacies and flavours of each instrument's history. Then you learn about the people who played or just listened.
A magical journey which will be like a delicious morsel or the taste of a good wine.

Siberian Pianos were for people and music's magic.

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