Piano
Piano
Piano (pronunciation: /piˈænoʊ/, /ˈpjɑːnoʊ/; etymology: Italian, short for pianoforte, from piano "soft" + forte "loud") is a large keyboard musical instrument with a wooden case enclosing a soundboard and metal strings, which are struck by hammers when the keys are depressed. The strings' vibration is stopped by dampers when the keys are released and can be sustained by the use of a pedal.
History
The piano was invented in Florence, Italy in 1700 by Bartolomeo Cristofori, a craftsman who repaired harpsichords for Italy's royal court. Cristofori's new instrument was known as the pianoforte because it allowed players to produce notes at different dynamic levels by controlling the intensity of the key press.
Types of Pianos
There are two main types of pianos: the grand piano and the upright piano. The grand piano has a horizontal frame and strings and has a more powerful sound because of its size and design. The upright piano, also known as the vertical piano, has a vertical frame and strings and is more compact, making it a popular choice for home use.
Components
The piano consists of several components, including the keyboard, which has 88 keys (52 white and 36 black); the soundboard, which amplifies the sound of the vibrating strings; the pedals, which alter the sound in various ways; and the strings, which are struck by the hammers to produce sound.
Playing the Piano
Playing the piano involves pressing the keys with the fingers and thumbs of both hands to cause the hammers to strike the strings. The foot is used to press the pedals to alter the sound. Piano music is written on the grand staff, which consists of the treble staff and bass staff.
Related Terms
- Harpsichord: A keyboard instrument, precursor to the piano, in which the strings are plucked, rather than struck.
- Clavichord: An early stringed keyboard instrument that produced sound by striking brass or iron strings with small metal blades.
- Organ: A large keyboard instrument in which sound is produced by air blowing through pipes or reeds.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Piano
- Wikipedia's article - Piano
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