The divided damper-rail was a London speciality that enraptured everyone who came across it, including Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Clementi, Cramer and Sterndale Bennett. Oddly, it died out, leaving the works designed for it high-and-dry, with no proper vehicle for performance. David Owen Norris explains, with copious examples, and tells us what he’s going to do about it.

Find out what else is on for Artistic Temperaments Festival

• Festival Ticket: book for all eight events for £46 (full price without discount £52)
Discount will be applied automatically at checkout

• Turner Sims Friends will receive their 10% discount whilst booking individual events for Artistic Temperaments Festival. If a Friend books for all eight events, the Festival Event Ticket (£46) will automatically apply.

• Student Festival Ticket: £20

Booked separately: Try the Pianos
9 – 11 February, times variable over the festival
Tickets £5 for a 15-minute session
1 person per slot (carers/guardians can accompany but will need to book a separate slot if they want to play)