The Piano Tuner by Daniel Mason

Description

“The Piano Tuner” is a novel written by Daniel Mason. Set in the late 19th century, the book tells the story of Edgar Drake, a piano tuner from London who is sent on a mission to Burma (now Myanmar) to tune a rare Erard grand piano.

Edgar Drake is an experienced and skilled piano tuner who leads a relatively uneventful life until he receives a peculiar assignment. The British military authorities recruit him to travel to the remote jungles of Burma to tune a piano for an eccentric surgeon, Anthony Carroll, who is stationed there.

Driven by curiosity and the promise of an adventure, Edgar embarks on the journey to Burma, leaving behind his wife and comfortable life in London. As he makes his way through the exotic landscapes and encounters various challenges, he becomes entangled in the complex political and cultural dynamics of the region.

While fulfilling his duty of tuning the piano, Edgar becomes captivated by the beauty of Burma and the enigmatic nature of Carroll, who seems to have ulterior motives beyond music. As the story progresses, Edgar’s personal and professional boundaries blur, leading him to question his own identity and values.

“The Piano Tuner” explores themes of colonialism, cultural clashes, and the transformative power of music. Daniel Mason skillfully weaves together historical elements and vivid descriptions of the Burmese landscape, creating an atmospheric and thought-provoking narrative.

The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the effects of colonialism on both the colonizers and the colonized. It offers a unique perspective on the clash of cultures and the impact of Western influence on traditional societies.

Overall, “The Piano Tuner” is a compelling historical novel that combines adventure, music, and introspection, offering readers an immersive experience into a richly depicted historical period and a story of self-discovery.