Accomplished pianist and dedicated teacher Fred Kronacher, takes readers on an illuminating tour; from his early experiences at the piano on through a life as music student, Greenwich Village street busker, ballet accompanist, concert pianist, piano teacher, and general music lover. These colorful, affecting stories explore the universal themes of growing up, friendship, romance, tragedy, comedy, and above all, a life-affirming quest for harmony and understanding. It is a book that brings together music, beauty, discipline, humor, loss, and loving service. This charming memoir, comprising twenty-two true stories, leads the reader into the fascinating world of classical music. These tales are by turns amusing, poignant, reflective, dramatic, funny, and profound. Reaching beyond the millions of people who study music, parents with children learning to play, and anyone who has ever had an interest in the piano, Piano Variations is a great read for those among us who simply love music.