Chopin's piano maker, Pleyel,  is closing up shop due to competition from China, but other makers are fighting the good fight - read about it here.

In essence, the free market seems to be working.  The the global "supply and demand" with many different items out there is beginning to take a toll on one of the most unique industries in the world.

China is the growing market, with manufacturers and and a culture that is growing and is now the new center for piano making.

While it may be considered a sad state, I simply find it nostalgic and special.  There will always be pianos, and there will always be someone who can and does tickle the ivories, just not as many as there used to be.

I almost didn't post this video, as it was difficult for me to watch; however, it is the sign of our times, in the world we live in today.From New York filmmaker Anthony Sherin comes this eerie, beautiful timelapse of what transpires in the 24 hours after an upright piano is abandoned on the street - 

Note how many people stop, touch, and ponder.  The miracle and magic of a piano, whatever condition it is in.  I guess that's the reason I make it a part of my life to put some life back into these majestic instruments, as sometimes, it is more than just making music that matters.

Selling for a little less than expected, the little piano played by Sam in Casablanca sold for $602,500.  They say it only has 58 keys and is green and distressed yellow in color!  Learn more about it at CNN.

What's more, it has been said that Leonardo Di Caprio is one the buyers of this piano! Check it out here!