Grand Piano

Before discussing the grand piano, let us consider the piano in general. The piano, also known by the less commonly used Italian name pianoforte, is a keyboard instrument whose sound is produced by strings. Pressing a key causes a wooden hammer inside to strike the strings, which is why the piano is also described as a percussion instrument. Widely used in classical music and jazz, it is well suited to solo performance, chamber music, accompaniment, composition and rehearsal. Although it is not portable and is generally expensive, its versatility and widespread availability make it one of the world's most commonly played instruments.

An acoustic piano generally consists of a wooden case surrounding and protecting the soundboard and metal strings, with 88 keys: 52 white and 36 black. Pressing a key produces sound through the strings; releasing it damps them. Pedals can sustain the sound even after the fingers leave the keys.

Although an acoustic piano contains many strings, it is also classed as a percussion instrument because the strings are struck. In the Hornbostel–Sachs classification, it is a chordophone: an instrument with strings and a body that transmits their sound. A harp's strings are plucked, a guitar's are strummed, a violin's are bowed and a piano's are struck by hammers. Alongside acoustic pianos, technological developments have produced electric, electronic and digital versions. Today's domestic upright pianos have 88 keys, while concert instruments may have up to 97. What makes a concert piano different? Grand pianos, used in large concert halls, maximise sound production through their size. Their acoustic projection allows the sound to be heard comfortably throughout the hall.

This variety means that when practising or taking lessons at home or school, you will encounter acoustic pianos. At a concert, by contrast, a grand piano with its imposing appearance will be waiting at centre stage. These instruments can cost almost as much as a house, so only a few brands worldwide produce them, including familiar names such as Steinway & Sons and Yamaha. If you dream of buying a grand piano, my advice is to consider an upright instead.

Pelin Aşkın Kumova
Rekor Sanat – Piano Teacher