Key facts and figures about the piano
Paul the piano tuner answers your questions
When was the piano invented?
The invention is credited to Bartolomeo Cristofori (1655–1731) of Padua, Italy, who was employed by Ferdinando de' Medici, Grand Prince of Tuscany, as the Keeper of the Instruments.
How did it get its name?
A 1700 inventory of Medici instruments mentions an 'arpicimbalo' – an instrument resembling a harpsichord, “newly invented by Bartolomeo Cristofori” with hammers and dampers, two keyboards, and a range of four octaves. A journalist, in a 1711 description, named Cristofori’s instrument a 'gravicembalo col piano, e forte' ('harpsichord with soft and loud'), the first mention of its eventual name, pianoforte.
How did the piano develop?
The creation of the hammer mechanism by Cristofori in 1709 allowed the instrument to play softly and loudly, the start of the development of the instrument’s expressive capacity. While continual improvements in its action paved the way for the advance of the pianoforte, a half century passed before it was able to overcome the initial objections of figures such as Johann Sebastian Bach and prevail over the harpsichord and clavichord.
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How is the sound created?
Pressing one or more keys causes a padded hammer to strike the strings. The hammer rebounds and the strings continue to vibrate at their resonant frequency. These vibrations are transmitted through a bridge to a soundboard. When the key is released, a damper stops the strings' vibration, ending the sound.
Is it classed as a stringed instrument?
No. Although an acoustic piano has strings, it is usually classified as a percussion instrument because the strings are struck rather than plucked.
How long will a piano last?
Pianos are durable, but they don't last forever. They are machines made of wood, felt, and metal. Over time, seasonal changes take their toll, stressing the wooden parts and straining glue joints. Felt hammers are flattened by collisions with the strings and metal parts corrode and weaken. Years of friction wear out the felt bushings in the action. How long a piano will last varies greatly, depending upon maintenance and repair, use, climate, and quality of manufacture. That said, a well made piano that's more than 50 years old can be restored to excellent condition.
What factors influence the sound of a piano?
Three key factors are at play here: the design of the instrument, its construction and the materials from which it was made. Variations in all three of these elements are responsible for the sound. But we should not neglect another important aspect – the placing of a piano.
So where should my piano be positioned?
Ideally it should be placed away from direct sunlight, as this can cause fading of the casework finish and drying and cracking of the soundboard. Also weakening of the glued joints can occur. In short, the more stable the temperature and atmospheric conditions, the more stable the instrument – and the less maintenance will be required. So, if possible, avoid placement near doors or windows or sources of heat. I am glad to advise customers on the optimum location.
The world's most expensive piano?
A Steinway Alma Tadema fetched $1.2 million at auction in London in 1997. The instrument was built in 1883-87 and designed by Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema. It is displayed at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts.When was the piano invented?
The invention is credited to Bartolomeo Cristofori (1655–1731) of Padua, Italy, who was employed by Ferdinando de' Medici, Grand Prince of Tuscany, as the Keeper of the Instruments.