Dr. Gray

Biography

Dr. Gray is identified in the text as a scientist associated with the British Museum whose knowledge of acoustics John Broadwood sought when reconstructing the square piano. Rather than experimenting merely as an empiric, Broadwood called upon Dr. Gray, together with Cavallo, to benefit from their scientific understanding, reflecting Broadwood's practice of seeking expert judgment for his major innovations in piano construction. From Spillane (1890): Dr. Grey, of the British Museum, was one of two scientists (with Cavallo) whose counsel John Broadwood sought in applying scientific principles to piano construction. Their combined efforts established the laws of "striking distance" in relation to hammer adjustment, principles that quickly spread through the London trade and reached Continental piano-makers.

Highlights

• A scientist at the British Museum whom John Broadwood consulted, along with Cavallo, for expertise in acoustics while reconstructing the square piano
• Of the British Museum; assisted John Broadwood, with Cavallo, in laying down the laws of 'striking distance' for hammer adjustment.

Sources

Alfred Dolge, Pianos and Their Makers, Vol. I (1911), p. 244.

Daniel Spillane, History of the American Pianoforte (1890), pp. 21, 22.

Public domain.