An 1809's medico's view on piano-playing
By Judy Evans
@JudyEv (382016)
Rockingham, Australia
November 7, 2023 6:53pm CST
I’m reading a book about the early days of the nursing post/hospital at Ravensthorpe, a small, isolated country in the south-east of Western Australia. The Phillips River was nearby and the local paper was called the Phillips River Times.
In the 19th January, 1809 edition, an article was posted entitled ‘Piano and the Nerves’. It appeared first in a medical paper. In his opinion, the chloroses and neuroses from which so many young girls suffer, may be largely attributed to the abuse of the piano.
I quote ‘He believed it was necessary to abandon the deadly habit of compelling young girls to labour on the keyboard before they were 15 or 16 years of age. Even at this age the exercise should be permitted only to those who are really talented and possessed of a robust temperament. The study of the violin produces even more disastrous results than those attributed to the piano.’ End of quote.
I can actually understand his reasoning.
The photo is of our piano
12 people like this
10 responses
@DaddyEvil (174377)
• United States
8 Nov 23
Sounds like he knew what he was talking about. Some people will benefit from learning a musical instrument and others just won't.
5 people like this
@DaddyEvil (174377)
• United States
8 Nov 23
@JudyEv That never made sense to me. If the young lady doesn't have an aptitude for piano, don't force them.
3 people like this
@JudyEv (382016)
• Rockingham, Australia
8 Nov 23
@DaddyEvil I agree but that's the way it was, way back when.
3 people like this

@1creekgirl (44560)
• United States
8 Nov 23
That guy's reasoning could be valid for kids of any age.
Your piano is beautiful. How old is it?
3 people like this

@JudyEv (382016)
• Rockingham, Australia
9 Nov 23
@1creekgirl Thanks. It still looks good and plays well.
2 people like this

@RebeccasFarm (91299)
• United States
8 Nov 23
That is your piano Judy? It is gorgeous.
1 person likes this

@RebeccasFarm (91299)
• United States
9 Nov 23
@JudyEv Amazing Judy. Truly precious.
1 person likes this

@LindaOHio (222313)
• United States
8 Nov 23
I love old medical history. It's one of my favorite things. I love your piano, especially the candle holders. Have a great day.
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