GHOSTS OF PIANO VIRTUOSOS TO HOLD RECITAL AT FERRUM COLLEGE

     Performer Ray Dietz will showcase his rare player grand piano for a unique presentation of the works of great pianists on March 12 at 7:30 p.m., in Sigmon Recital Hall, Grousbeck Music Center.

     The player piano is a self-playing piano that was invented in 1896 and peaked in popularity between 1900-1930. Dietz is one of many enthusiasts who is helping to bring people’s attention back to the instrument.

     Dietz’s piano was built in 1924 and fitted with an AMPICO reproducer, allowing him to operate the machine by inserting interchangeable rolls of paper. Tiny perforations on the paper represent the music itself, which is heard when the reproducer alternates the levels of suction.

     Dietz is bringing hundreds of rolls for the audience to choose from, with choices from classical, oldies, marches, polkas, ballads, big band, as well as several other genres. Artists include Rachmaninov, Fritz Chrysler, Scott Joplin, Harry James and Benny Goodman.

     Music Department Program Coordinator Dr. Erma Rose said, “You hear the music, and you see the keys moving. It’s truly as if there’s someone sitting there playing the piano. It’s truly unbelievable.”

     The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Wayne Bowman at (540) 365-4338.

     Ferrum College is a four-year, private, co-educational, liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. For more information on Ferrum, visit www.ferrum.edu. # # #