Piano

Definition

The piano is a musical instrument that produces sound by striking strings with hammers, controlled by a keyboard. It evolved during the Baroque period from earlier keyboard instruments like the harpsichord and clavichord, offering a greater range of dynamics and expressive capabilities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The piano was invented in Italy around 1700 by Bartolomeo Cristofori, originally called the 'gravicembalo col piano e forte', meaning 'harpsichord with soft and loud'.
2. The design of the piano allowed for a wide dynamic range, enabling composers to write more expressive music compared to its predecessors like the harpsichord.
3. During the Baroque period, the piano was not as commonly used as the harpsichord or clavichord, but it started gaining popularity towards the end of this period.
4. Baroque composers such as J.S. Bach did not write specifically for the piano, but their works can be adapted for it, showcasing its versatility.
5. The evolution of the piano led to significant developments in piano construction, such as the introduction of the iron frame and felt hammers in the 19th century, enhancing its sound quality and durability.

Review Questions

• How did the invention of the piano impact musical expression during the transition from the Baroque to later periods?
  • The invention of the piano significantly enhanced musical expression by allowing for greater dynamic contrast and nuanced playing. This capability enabled composers to explore more complex emotional landscapes in their compositions. As the piano began to replace earlier keyboard instruments like the harpsichord, it changed how music was performed and heard, paving the way for Romantic composers to fully utilize its expressive potential.
• Compare and contrast the piano with its predecessors such as the harpsichord and clavichord in terms of sound production and playing technique.
  • The piano differs from the harpsichord and clavichord mainly in its method of sound production; it uses hammers striking strings rather than plucking them or producing sound through tangents. This allows for a wider range of dynamics and articulations in performance. While the harpsichord offers a bright tone with limited expressiveness, and the clavichord is quiet but allows for some dynamic variation, the piano combines both qualities, making it suitable for a broader array of musical styles.
• Evaluate how the development of the piano influenced compositional techniques in music from the Classical period onward.
  • The development of the piano revolutionized compositional techniques from the Classical period onward by encouraging composers to explore new harmonies, textures, and forms that leveraged its unique capabilities. Composers like Mozart and Beethoven began writing specifically for this instrument, incorporating intricate passages and varied dynamics that were previously challenging with earlier keyboard instruments. The expanding capabilities of the piano not only transformed individual compositions but also influenced larger musical trends, leading to greater emphasis on personal expression and emotional depth in music.

Related terms

Harpsichord: A keyboard instrument that produces sound by plucking strings when keys are pressed, known for its bright and clear tone but limited dynamic range.

Clavichord:

A soft-sounding keyboard instrument that creates sound through the use of tangents striking strings, allowing for expressive playing but with a quieter volume.

Fortepiano: The early version of the modern piano that was popular in the Classical era, known for its lighter touch and smaller size compared to contemporary pianos.