Do you want to learn how to play the piano? Are you looking for a new piano? If so, you may be wondering what type of piano to buy. There are a few different types of pianos on the market today, each with its own unique set of features.
You may be wondering what the differences are and which one is best for you. When it comes to choosing the right piano for your needs, it can be confusing trying to figure out which type is best.
Whether you’re a beginner just starting out, or an experienced player looking for a new instrument, there are many different types of pianos to choose from. And each has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. So, which one is right for you?
In this article, we’ll discuss the types of pianos available on the market, and what makes them unique, so you can make an informed decision when purchasing your new instrument.
At Best Keyboard Pianos, we’ll also offer some tips on how to choose the best piano for your needs. So whether you’re in the market for a new piano, or just curious about what’s out there, read on for more information.
What Is a Piano?
A piano is a stringed musical instrument that produces sound through the vibration of strings. The piano has a keyboard that is used to strike the strings and produce notes.
The word “piano” comes from the Italian word “pianoforte,” which means “soft-loud.” The piano has been an important part of Western music for centuries, and its popularity has only grown in recent years.
Pianos come in a variety of sizes, from grand pianos that are over 9 feet long to small upright pianos that can fit in a corner of a room. There are also digital pianos, which are electronic instruments that mimic the sound and feel of a traditional piano.
Pianos can be used for a variety of purposes, from playing classical music to accompanying singers and other instrumentalists. They can also be used as solo instruments, or as part of a band or orchestra.
Moreover, they can be played solo or in groups, and are used in a variety of genres, including classical, jazz, pop, and rock music. Thanks to advances in technology, there are now more types of pianos available than ever before.
A Brief History Of Piano
The piano has a long and rich history. It is believed to have been invented in the early 1700s, and it quickly became one of the most popular instruments of the time. The first pianos were built in Italy, and the instrument quickly spread to other parts of Europe.
The first pianos were quite different from the instruments we know today. They had a much smaller range of notes, and they were unable to play more than one note at a time, and they were intended to be used as a practice instruments for harpsichordists.
In the late 18th century, the first modern piano was invented by Bartolomeo Cristofori. Cristofori’s piano was an improvement on the pianoforte, and it quickly became popular with musicians.
Pianos became increasingly popular in the 1800s, thanks in part to the rise of public music halls and performance venues. The piano industry boomed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as new factories and technologies made it possible to mass-produce pianos for a growing global market.
Pianos have come a long way since their early days. Today’s pianos are much more sophisticated than their predecessors and can be used for a wide range of purposes. And with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
Types Of Pianos
There are three main types of pianos: grand pianos, upright pianos, and digital pianos. Each has its own unique set of features and benefits.
1. Grand Pianos
Grand pianos are the largest type of piano, and they are considered the standard for classical music. They are also the most expensive type of piano, and they require a large amount of space.
Grand pianos have a full-sized keyboard and an extended range of notes. They also have three pedals, which are used to control various aspects of the sound.
Grand pianos have a rich, full sound that is well-suited for classical and jazz music. They also have a wide range of notes, which allows for more complex pieces of music.
If you’re looking for a piano that can be used for professional performances, or if you have a lot of space in your home, a grand piano may be the right choice for you.
Note: Grand pianos come in different sizes, with the standard width being about 5′. The length of a grand piano can vary from 4½’ to 9½’. When choosing a grand piano, make sure to allow for enough floor space. The smallest grand piano should have an area of at least 5′ wide by 6½’ long, which includes space for the bench.
Grand pianos are measured by their length from the front of the keyboard to the farthest end of the piano along the spine, with the lid closed. This measurement will help you determine the size of the grand piano that is right for you.
2. Upright Or Vertical Pianos
Upright pianos are smaller than grand pianos, and they are typically more affordable. They also take up less space, which makes them a good choice for small homes or apartments.
Upright pianos have a smaller keyboard and a shorter range of notes. They typically have two pedals, which are used to control the sound.
Upright pianos have a similar sound to grand pianos, but they are not as loud. They are well-suited for a variety of genres, including classical, jazz, and pop music.
If you’re looking for a piano that is less expensive and takes up less space, an upright piano may be the right choice for you.
Note: Upright pianos are usually between 43″ – 53″ (110cm – 135cm) in height, around 61″ (155cm) in wide, and 23″ (60cm) in deep. The big difference between the models is the height.
3. Digital Or Electronic Pianos
Digital pianos are electronic instruments that mimic the sound and feel of a traditional piano. They are typically more affordable than grand or upright pianos, and they take up very little space. They’re often used by beginner and intermediate players.
Digital pianos have a wide range of features, including the ability to create different sounds and simulate different types of pianos. They also have built-in speakers, which makes them a good choice for practice or performance.
Digital pianos use sensors to convert the vibrations of the strings into digital signals, which are then amplified through speakers. They typically have a wide range of features and sounds (such as built-in speakers and MIDI compatibility), and some models even come with built-in lessons.
If you’re looking for a piano that is less expensive and more versatile, a digital piano may be the right choice for you.
Type Of Grand Pianos
1. Baby Grand (5′ to 5.5′)
The baby grand is the smallest type of grand piano, typically measuring between 5′ and 5.5′. It’s a popular choice for beginners and those who don’t have a lot of space in their homes for a larger instrument.
Baby grands also have a shorter scale length, which can make them easier to play. And while they don’t have the same powerful sound as a full-sized grand, they’re still capable of producing a beautiful tone.
2. Petit Grand (4′ 5″ to 4′ 11″)
The petit grand is slightly larger than the baby grand, typically measuring between 4’5″ and 4’11”. It’s a good choice for those who want a bigger sound but don’t have the space for a medium or large grand piano.
Petit grands offer many of the same features as grand pianos, but in a smaller package. They typically have a full-sized keyboard and a rich, resonant sound. And because they’re smaller, they’re often more affordable than grand pianos.
3. Medium Grand (5′ 6″ to 5′ 8″)
A medium grand piano is a great option if you’re looking for something that’s larger than a traditional upright piano, but not as large as a concert grand. It is the most popular size of the grand piano, typically measuring between 5’6″ and 5’8″.
It’s a good choice for those who want a full-size piano but don’t have the space for a large grand piano. Plus, they offer a fuller sound than an upright.
4. Professional Grand (5′ 9″ to 6′ 2″)
The professional grand is typically measuring between 5’9″ and 6’2″. It’s the preferred choice of concert pianists and those who want the biggest sound possible.
5. Parlor Grand (6′ 3″ to 6′ 10″)
A parlor grand is a smaller version of a concert grand piano, making it more compact and easier to move.
The parlor grand is a popular choice for those who want the sound and feel of a grand piano, but don’t have the space for a full-sized instrument. They are also a good choice for beginner and intermediate players who are still developing their skills.
Parlor grands typically have the standard 88-key design, and range in size from 6’3″ and 6’10”. The smaller size makes them more manageable to move, and they can often be found second-hand for a more affordable price.
6. Semi-concert Grand (6′ 11″ to 7′ 8″)
A semi-concert grand is a type of piano that lies between a full concert grand and an upright piano in size. They are larger than an upright piano but not as large as a concert grand. Semi-concert grands are usually about 6’11” and 7’8″.
This type of piano is a good choice for people who want a larger instrument but don’t have the space for a full concert grand. They are also a good choice for people who want the sound of a grand piano but don’t need the extra size or weight.
Semi-concert grands typically have more power and projection than an upright piano, but they don’t have the same rich, deep sound as a concert grand. They are also usually more expensive than an upright piano.
7. Concert Grand (8′ 11″ to 9′)
A concert grand piano is the largest and most expensive type of piano. They are typically used in large venues such as concert halls and are not practical for most home settings.
The concert grand is typically measuring 8’11” to 9′. It’s the preferred choice of professional pianists and those who want the biggest sound possible.
Concert grand pianos have the richest, deepest sound of all the piano types. They are also the heaviest and most difficult to move.
Types Of Upright Pianos
1. Spinet Piano (36″ to 40″)
The spinet is the smallest type of upright piano, typically measuring between 36″ and 40″ tall. It’s a popular choice for those who don’t have a lot of space in their home for a larger instrument.
If you want a grand piano sound but don’t want to spend the money on a full-sized grand, then a spinet piano might be a good option for you. Spinet pianos are smaller in size, and they have a shorter keyboard.
This gives them a lighter, more delicate sound than a full-sized grand piano. Spinet pianos are also less expensive than grand pianos, making them a good choice for the beginner or intermediate players.
2. Console Piano (40″ to 44″)
The console is slightly larger than the spinet, typically measuring between 40″ and 44″ tall. It’s a good choice for those who want a bigger sound but don’t have the space for a studio or professional upright piano.
A console piano is similar to a spinet piano in terms of size and weight. However, console pianos have a larger keyboard and produce a fuller sound.
Console pianos are usually more expensive than spinet pianos, but they’re still a good option for beginner and intermediate players.
3. Studio Piano ( 43″ to 47″)
The studio is the most popular size of the upright piano, typically measuring between 43″ and 47″ tall. It’s a good choice for those who want a full-size piano but don’t have the space for a professional upright piano.
Studio pianos are larger than console pianos, and they have an even deeper cabinet. They also have a full-size keyboard with weighted keys, which makes them a good choice for advanced players.
A studio piano is a type of piano that is designed for use in a recording studio. It is usually a grand piano that has been modified to be more durable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity.
Studio pianos are typically made with a higher quality of materials than other types of pianos, and they are often tuned to a lower pitch so that they can be recorded without sounding too loud.
Some studio pianos also have special features, such as a fourth pedal that allows the player to sustain two notes at the same time.
4. Full-size Or Professional Piano (47″ to 60″)
If you are looking for a piano that will give you the best possible sound quality, then you may want to consider a professional upright piano. These pianos are designed with sound quality in mind, and they often have features that other types of pianos do not.
The professional is the largest type of upright piano, typically measuring 47″ to 60″. It’s the preferred choice of concert pianists and those who want the biggest sound possible.
They have the deepest cabinet of all the upright piano types, and they also have a full-size keyboard with weighted keys. Professional pianos are the most expensive type of upright piano.
For instance, professional upright pianos usually have a larger soundboard than other types of pianos. This helps to create a richer, fuller sound.
Professional upright pianos also tend to have better action than other types of pianos. This means that the keys are more responsive, and the overall feel of the piano is smoother.
What About Other Types Of Pianos?
1. Children’s Toy Piano
A toy piano is a great option for children who are just starting to learn how to play. These instruments are small, lightweight, and easy to carry around. They’re also generally very affordable.
Toy pianos typically have a smaller number of keys than full-size pianos, making them easier for little hands to play with. And they usually don’t have all the features of a real piano, such as weighted keys or pedals.
However, toy pianos can still be a great way for kids to learn the basics of playing the piano. And many of them come with fun features, such as animal sounds or built-in games.
If you’re looking for a piano for a child, a toy piano may be a good option. Just keep in mind that they’re not meant to be permanent instruments. As your child grows, they may need to upgrade to a larger piano.
2. Hybrid Pianos
A hybrid piano is a cross between an acoustic and digital piano. It has the body of an acoustic piano but the inner workings of a digital piano.
The benefit of a hybrid piano is that you get the best of both worlds – the rich, full sound of an acoustic piano with the added features and versatility of a digital piano.
Hybrid pianos are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a wider range of sounds and features than traditional acoustic or digital pianos. However, they are also more expensive than either type of piano, so it’s important to consider your needs before making a purchase.
If you’re looking for a piano that offers the best of both worlds, then a hybrid piano is a great option. However, if you’re on a budget, then an acoustic or digital piano may be a better choice.
3. Tablet Pianos
Tablet pianos are a newer type of piano that is becoming increasingly popular. These pianos are similar to digital pianos, but they have a few key differences.
First, tablet pianos use an iPad or other tablet device as the “keyboard.” The keys are usually made of silicone or another soft material, and they’re usually smaller than traditional piano keys.
This makes them lighter and easier to carry around, which is one of the main advantages of tablet pianos. They’re also typically more affordable than traditional digital pianos.
Another advantage of tablet pianos is that you can use them with a variety of apps and software that can help you learn to play the piano or improve your skills. There are a number of great apps out there that offer lessons, games, and other resources for learning to play the piano.
So if you’re looking for a portable and affordable piano that you can use with apps and software to help you learn, a tablet piano may be a good option for you.
Tips For Choosing The Right Piano
Now that you know the different types of pianos available, how do you choose the right one for you? Here are a few tips to help you choose the best piano for your needs:
1. Consider your budget: Pianos range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. So, it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping.
2. Consider your skill level: If you’re a beginner, you may want to consider an entry-level piano such as a digital piano or an upright piano. If you’re more experienced, you may want to consider a grand piano.
3. Consider your space: Pianos are large instruments, so you’ll need to make sure you have enough space for one. If you live in a small apartment, an upright piano may be a better option.
4. Consider your needs: Are you looking for a piano that’s portable? Do you need a piano with built-in speakers? Do you need a piano with MIDI compatibility? Consider your needs before making a purchase.
5. Talk to a Piano Expert: The best way to choose the right piano is to talk to a Piano Expert at a local music store. They can help you consider your budget, space, and skill level to find the best piano for your needs.
6. Try before you buy: Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s important to try out the pianos in person before making a purchase. Visit a local music store or Piano dealership and ask to play the pianos.
7. Type of music you want to play: The type of music you want to play will also play a role in choosing the right piano.
If you want to play classical or jazz music, a grand piano is the best option. These pianos have a wide range of notes and a rich, full sound.
If you want to play pop or rock music, an upright or digital piano may be the better choice. These pianos are less expensive and take up less space.
Purchasing a piano is a big decision. But if you take the time to consider your needs and try out different pianos, you’re sure to find the perfect instrument for you.
FAQs Of Piano Types
1. How are pianos classified?
In the traditional Hornbostel-Sachs system of categorizing musical instruments, pianos are classified as chordophones, which is a category of musical instruments that includes stringed instruments like guitars and violins.
The piano is classified as a type of strung keyboard instrument, which means it produces sound by vibrating strings that are struck by hammers. The hammers are activated by a keyboard.
The piano is unique among chordophones in that it has a keyboard, which allows the player to strike the strings with hammers, rather than plucking them with their fingers.
This makes the piano more versatile than other chordophones, as it can produce a wider range of sounds.
2. What’s a big piano called?
The Concert Grand is the largest and most powerful type of piano. It is typically used in large concert halls and theaters, where its size and power can fill the room with sound. While a Concert Grand is an impressive instrument, it is also very expensive, making it out of reach for many people.
3. What is an organ piano?
An organ piano is a type of keyboard instrument that uses pipes and pedals to produce sound. Organ pianos are often used in churches and cathedrals, as they can create a large, powerful sound.
One of the main advantages of an organ piano is that it can be played with or without electricity. This makes them ideal for use in places where power may be unreliable or unavailable.
Organ pianos also have a wide range of sounds and tones that can be achieved by changing the stops (a set of valves that controls the flow of air to the pipes). This gives the player a lot of control over the sound of the instrument.
The downside of organ pianos is that they can be very large and heavy, making them difficult to transport. They also require regular maintenance, as the pipes can become clogged with dust and dirt.
4. What type of piano did Mozart play?
Mozart’s piano was a fortepiano, which is an early type of piano that is now considered to be a historical instrument. The fortepiano was the first type of piano to be invented and was popular in the 18th century. It is different from the modern piano in several ways, including its more limited range of notes and its softer sound.
The fortepiano was replaced by the Steinway grand piano in the 19th century, which is the type of piano that is most commonly used today. Steinway grand pianos are larger than fortepianos and have a much wider range of notes. They also have a much louder and richer sound.
5. Did Yamaha make a spinet piano?
The Yamaha spinet piano is a type of piano that was manufactured by the Yamaha Corporation. It is a small piano, typically measuring between 36 and 40 inches in height. The spinet piano was first introduced in 1970 and quickly became one of Yamaha’s most popular models.
6. Why is it called a spinet?
A spinet is a small, upright piano that was popular in the early 1900s. It gets its name from its unique shape – the back of the piano is slanted, which gives it a “spinning” look. Spinets are generally less expensive than other types of pianos, and they’re smaller in size, making them a good choice for people with limited space.
7. When did they stop making spinet pianos?
The last spinet piano was made in the early 1990s. However, there are still many of these pianos on the market today. Spinet pianos are no longer being made, but you may be able to find one second-hand. If you’re interested in purchasing a used spinet piano, be sure to have it inspected by a qualified technician before making your purchase.
8. Is a spinet piano bad?
No, a spinet piano is not bad. While it may not have the best sound quality, it is still a perfectly good piano for beginners or those on a budget. The main downside to a spinet piano is that it has a shorter keyboard, which can make it difficult to play some pieces of music.
9. What are the two types of piano?
Grand pianos and upright pianos are the two main types of pianos available on the market today.
Grand pianos are the bigger of the two types. They are typically at least five feet long and can be as long as nine feet. Grand pianos have a full, rich sound, and are often used in concert halls and recording studios.
Upright pianos are smaller than grand pianos and are usually between four and six feet tall. Upright pianos have a more compact sound and are often used in homes and small venues.
10. What’s a small piano called?
A small piano is typically called a spinet piano. Spinet pianos are smaller in size and have a shorter keyboard. They’re usually less expensive than larger pianos, making them a good choice for beginner piano players.
11. Which piano is best for beginners?
The best piano for beginners is typically a digital piano. Digital pianos are less expensive than traditional acoustic pianos, and they’re often lighter and more portable. They also have many features that can be helpful for beginners, such as scaled-down keys, built-in metronomes, and the ability to split the keyboard into two halves so you can play along with a friend or teacher.
If you’re just starting out, we recommend checking out some of the best digital pianos for beginners. These instruments will give you a great foundation on which to build your skills. And when you’re ready to move on to an acoustic piano, you can always upgrade.
12. What type of piano is most common?
The most common type of piano is the upright piano. Upright pianos are popular because they’re affordable, and they take up less space than grand pianos. Uprights come in a variety of sizes, from compact models that are perfect for small apartments, to full-size instruments that offer a rich, powerful sound.
Upright pianos are a good choice for beginners, as they’re relatively easy to learn how to play. They’re also a good choice for people who have limited space in their homes. If you’re considering an upright piano, be sure to try out different models before you buy, so you can find one that feels comfortable to play.
Conclusion
Now that you know more about the types of pianos available, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision when purchasing your new instrument. And you can be sure you’re getting the best piano for your money.
If you’re a beginner, a digital piano may be the best option for you. If you’re an experienced player, an acoustic piano may be a better choice. Ultimately, the best piano for you is the one that meets your needs and fits your budget.
Pianos come in all shapes and sizes. But by keeping the above factors in mind, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect piano for your home or studio.
We hope this article has helped you learn more about the different types of pianos available on the market, and how to choose the best one for your needs. Thanks for reading!
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