A piano is a keyboard instrument that generates sound when its keys are depressed. Modern pianos consist of a row of 88 black and white keys, tuned to a chromatic scale in equal temperament. A pianist is called who specializes in piano.
Types of piano
There are two main types of piano:
- Grand piano
- Upright piano.
The grand piano has precise key control, making it the preferred choice. It is a necessity in venues hosting skilled pianists. On the other hand, the upright piano is used due to its smaller size and lower cost.
Invention
The invention of the piano’ credit goes to Bartolomeo Cristofori of Padua, Italy, who was employed by Ferdinando de’ Medici, Grand Prince of Tuscany, as the Keeper of the Instruments. Cristofori named the instrument un cimbalo di cipresso di piano e forte (“a keyboard of cypress with soft and loud”).