Author Archives: Maria Grace

The Pianoforte of Jane Austen’s day

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What was the pianoforte and how did it feature in Austen’s works? The pianoforte so often featured in Jane Austen’s works was essentially the same instrument we know today as the piano. The instrument first came into being about 1700, by  Bartolomeo Cristofori of Padua who cared for the harpsichords of the Florentine court. He developed an instrument similar to a harpsichord that allowed the instrument to be played both soft and loud (the meaning … Continue reading →

Duet part 3

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“Then we can play it again for them later.” Elizabeth leaned down and whispered in Georgian’s ear.  “If I do not have something to keep me occupied now, I am certain I will say something I will doubtlessly regret.” What has Elizabeth so distressed? Part 3  As the only unmarried woman of the party, Georgiana lingered appropriately behind the others on the way to the drawing room. How fortunate she was to have a few … Continue reading →

Duet part 2

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Perhaps Georgiana has found a sympathetic soul amongst their house party. Part 2 Georgiana clutched the mahogany banister and stopped halfway down the marble grand stairs, her breath coming in sharp ragged pants. If her heart raced any harder, it might just leave her chest entirely. The Dowdings had arriving whilst she was walking in the gardens. Now they were gathered downstairs in the parlor waiting for dinner. And now as she had changed from … Continue reading →

Duet part 1

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The feeling of being invaded by strangers had never been a comfortable one, even when Georgiana was in the nursery. But now, especially after Ramsgate, it was nigh intolerable. So why did Eizabeth and Fitzwilliam have to plan a house party? Part 1 Georgiana sat at the piano in the music room, hands floating over the keyboard. Most days this was her favorite room in the house. On the east side of the house, it … Continue reading →