The Piano plays itself: Welte-Mignon & the Mechanical Music(1997)

When unveiled in 1904, the Welte-Mignon reproducing piano was a sensation: a new technology which several of the greatest composers and musicians of the day – many who otherwise remain unrecorded – set down their performances for posterity. With the help of historical footage and extensive interview material, Oliver Becker's fascinating documentary explores the Welte-Mignon's origins and history – as well as the implications it had for composers and performers.