Types Of Pianos
Pianos have always been a significant part of the culture of New Zealand. According to the New Zealand Journal of History, between 1877 and 1931, every house had a piano. And it was a common practice to sing in groups accompanying a piano.
The New Zealand Journal of Public History even depicts the instrument as “a direct, tangible link with the past.” Even in general, the instrument is quite popular around the world. It is one of the few instruments that allow a simultaneous play of harmony and melody.
Due to the ongoing pandemic, there has been a rise in people playing, teaching, and learning the instrument. But do you know how many types of pianos there are?
Different Types of Pianos
Familiar to the sound and a beautiful harmony, the instrument has long been associated with aesthetics, grandeur, and class. It is a life-long investment as many families take pride in it. However, getting the right type is essential.
The music culture in New Zealand developed around this instrument. The acoustic device has been central for many vocal practices, such as school singing and singing hymns.
Pianos are categorized based on many factors depending on their size and position. Here are the types that you can invest in:
Grand Pianos
Perhaps the most expensive and most significant of the types, these are recognized for their unique architecture. The strings are much longer compared to other pianos. It also has a much larger soundboard.
The horizontally placed strings go up and down as the hammer swings in the same direction. These pianos are easily recognizable due to their rich sound.
Upright Pianos
Unlike the horizontal Grand pianos, the strings and soundboard in upright pianos are vertically placed. The hammer on these pianos strike vertically. This is why playing upright pianos is much different from playing Grand pianos.
This type comes with shorter strings. And the soundboards are smaller in comparison to the grands.
The upright has a few variations, such as-
Studio Pianos
These are also used as the “school choir” pianos. Mostly known to be used in institutions, it can deliver a decent bass.
Spinet Pianos
Known also as the smallest of upright pianos, it comes with drop-down action. If you are a beginner, spinet pianos are not recommended for you.
Console Pianos
These types of upright pianos have a full-sized functionality. The only drawback they have is that their tone is not as consistent as the grands.
Digital Pianos
Digital pianos are a more comfortable and affordable option for those who cannot afford or accommodate a grand. Their sound may be like the grands and uprights but playing them is much different.
These types of pianos don’t have a hammer to hit the strings. Instead, they come with sensors and speakers that play the recorded sound of an acoustic piano. The digital version includes many sample notes at different volumes for your convenience.
Each piano has its unique sound and purpose. The grands are primarily suitable for performing at concerts. On the other hand, consoles are perfect for beginners’ lessons. Studio pianos are mainly used for composing music. In general, upright pianos are most commonly used as they can be stacked up in a room.
There are a few other variations, such as a baby grand or a hybrid digital version. But primarily, these are the types you need to consider when you plan on getting one.
