There are many different types of pianos on the market today. If you are looking for a new piano, it is important to understand the different types available and what each type has to offer so that you can make an informed decision about which one is best for you.
In this blog post, we will discuss the most common types of pianos. We will also provide a brief overview of each type and discuss some of the pros and cons of each one.
What is a Piano?
A piano is a musical instrument that produces sound by striking the keys of a set of tuned strings with small hammers. The strings are strung on a frame that also contains a sounding board. The sounding board amplifies the sound of the strings and gives the piano its unique tone.
Pianos come in a variety of sizes, from grand types of piano options that are more than nine feet long to small upright pianos that are less than four feet tall. There are also different types of pianos, each with its own set of features and benefits.
The Main Piano Types
Piano types can be broken down into three main categories: the grand piano, the upright piano, and the digital piano.
Grand Piano
A grand piano is made up of a wooden frame with strings that are stretched across it and a polished finish. The strings are struck by hammers that are controlled by the keys on the keyboard. When the keys are pressed, the hammers strike the strings, which produces the sound.
The grand piano is the largest type of piano and is typically used in concert halls and other large venues. Grand pianos produce powerful sounds and are versatile, making them a popular choice for piano players (both professional and amateur musicians).
However, grand pianos are also the most expensive type of piano, so they may not be an option for everyone. Usually, when learning to play the piano you start with an upright piano and over time you move to a grand piano if you reach a more professional level that justifies the investment.
There are several types of grand pianos:
1. The concert grand piano
The concert grand piano is the largest type of grand piano. It is typically used in large concert venues and can seat up to three people. It has a full, rich sound and is the most expensive type of grand piano.
2. The parlor grand piano
The parlor grand piano is smaller than the concert grand piano and is typically used in smaller venues such as homes or clubs. It has a full sound but is not as powerful as the concert grand piano.
3. The baby grand piano
The baby grand piano is the smallest type of grand piano. It is typically used in small studios and homes and is more affordable than the other types of grand pianos. It has a full sound but is not as powerful as the concert grand piano.
4. The professional grand piano
This type of grand piano is used by professional musicians. It has a full, rich sound and is the most used type of grand piano in concert halls.
Pros of grand pianos:
- Grand pianos have a rich, full sound that is unmatched by any other type of piano.
- They are built to last and can last for decades with proper care.
- They are available in different sizes and price ranges to suit any budget or space.
Cons of grand pianos:
- Grand pianos require regular tuning and maintenance.
- They are large and heavy, which can make them difficult to move.
- They are more expensive than other types of pianos.
Digital Piano
A digital piano, or electric piano, is an electronic instrument that produces sound by using digital samples of acoustic piano sounds. It has a keyboard like an acoustic piano, but the sound is produced by external speakers or headphones instead of strings and hammers.
Digital pianos are available in different sizes and price ranges. They are also available with different features, such as weighted keys, built-in speakers, and USB connectivity. Digital pianos are a good choice for people who want the sound of an acoustic piano without the hassle of regular tuning and maintenance.
The different types of digital pianos are:
1. The stage piano
The stage piano is designed for use in live performances. It is small and portable, making it easy to transport from gig to gig. It has a variety of features, such as weighted keys and built-in speakers.
2. The home digital piano
The home digital piano is designed for use in the home. It is typically larger and more expensive than the stage piano. It has a variety of features, such as weighted keys, built-in speakers, and USB connectivity.
3. The portable digital piano
The portable digital piano is smaller and lighter than the home digital piano. It is designed for people who want to be able to take their piano with them when they travel. It typically has fewer features than the home digital piano, but it is still a good choice for people who want a tonal-quality instrument.
Pros of digital pianos:
- Digital pianos are more affordable than acoustic pianos.
- They are lighter and smaller than acoustic pianos, making them easier to move.
- Electric piano options require less maintenance than acoustic pianos.
- They offer a wide range of features and options.
Cons of digital pianos:
- Digital pianos can have a synthetic sound that some people do not like.
- They can be less durable than acoustic pianos.
- Some pianists (especially those playing classical music) prefer the touch and feel of acoustic pianos.
The Upright Piano
An upright piano is a type of piano that has a vertical frame and strings. Upright pianos are smaller and lighter than grand pianos, making them a good choice for people who have limited space.
Upright pianos typically have a less full sound than grand pianos, but they are still a good choice for beginner and intermediate pianists.
In my piano learning journey, I have been playing an upright piano for 5-6 years before moving to a grand piano.
There are different types of upright pianos, such as:
The spinet piano is the smallest and most affordable type of upright piano. It is a good choice for people who have limited space. The sound is not as full as a grand piano, but it is still a good choice for beginner and intermediate pianists.
2. The studio piano
The studio upright piano is larger and more expensive than the spinet piano. It has a fuller sound, making it a good choice for people who want a quality instrument.
3. The console piano
The console piano is larger and more expensive than the studio piano. It has a fuller sound, making it a good choice for people who want a quality instrument.
Pros of upright pianos:
- Upright pianos are smaller and lighter than grand pianos, making them a good choice for people who have limited suitable space.
- They typically have a less full sound than grand pianos, but they are still a good choice for beginner and intermediate pianists.
- Upright pianos are more affordable than grand pianos.
Cons of upright pianos:
- They can be quite heavy and hard to move.
Choosing the Right Piano
There are several factors to consider when choosing the right piano for you. These include:
- The type of music you want to play: If you want to play classical music, then you will need a different type of piano than if you want to play jazz or rock. Each type of music requires a different type of piano. Choose a piano that is enjoyable to play and that sounds great. To truly get a feel for the piano you’re buying, we advise you to test out a variety of models when you visit the store. Make sure the tone and timbre suit your preferences.
- Your budget: Pianos can be expensive, so you need to make sure you have a budget that can accommodate the type of piano you want.
- The amount of space you have: Pianos come in all different sizes, so you need to make sure you factor in space for the type of piano you want.
- Your skill level: If you are a beginner, you will need a different type of piano than professional piano players.
- Piano quality: When it comes to pianos, you get what you pay for. If you want a quality piano, you need to be willing to pay for it.
- Aesthetic: Pianos come in all different shapes and sizes, so you need to make sure you find one that fits your style of music.
The Different Parts of a Piano
The different parts of a piano include:
- The keyboard: The keyboard is the part of the piano that you play. It consists of black and white keys that you press to create sound.
- The pedals: The pedals are the part of the piano that you use your feet to operate. Each pedal has a different function. There are a number of pedals, such as the reverb pedal, middle pedal, and sustain pedal.
- The soundboard: The larger soundboard is the part of the piano that amplifies the sound.
- The strings: The strings are the part of the piano that produces the sound.
- The hammers: The hammers are the part of the piano that strikes the strings to create sound.
- The frame: The frame is the part of the piano that supports the other parts.
Piano Maintenance
Pianos need to be regularly tuned and maintained to stay in good condition. If you do not maintain your piano, it can become out of tune and damaged. Here are several ways you can maintain your piano:
Tuning
Pianos need to be tuned at least once a year, but more often if they are played frequently. Tuning refers to the process of adjusting the piano’s strings to the correct pitch.
Cleaning
Pianos need to be cleaned regularly to remove dust and dirt. You can clean your piano with a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment.
Polishing
Pianos need to be polished every few months to keep them looking their best. You can polish your piano with a soft cloth and piano polish.
Repairing
If your piano is damaged, you will need to repair it. You can either do this yourself or hire a professional.
Piano moving
If you need to move your piano, you will need to hire a professional. This is because pianos are very heavy and can be easily damaged.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which piano is best for beginners?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best piano for beginners will vary depending on factors such as budget, skill level, and the type of music you want to play. However, some good beginner piano options include upright pianos and digital pianos.
Upright pianos are a good option for beginners because they are more affordable than grand pianos. Digital pianos are a good option for beginners because they are less expensive than grand pianos and they offer a wide range of recording features and built-in sounds.
What is the difference between a grand piano and an upright piano?
Grand pianos are the largest type of piano and are the most typically used pianos in concert halls and other large venues. Upright pianos are smaller than grand pianos and they are typically used in homes and smaller venues.
The main difference between these two types of pianos is their size. Grand pianos are much larger and heavier than upright pianos. They also have a different shape, with the strings and soundboard positioned horizontally. Upright pianos have the strings and soundboard positioned vertically.
Grand pianos also have a richer, fuller sound than upright pianos. Finally, grand pianos are more expensive than upright pianos. If you are a beginner, you may want to start with an upright piano. However, if you have the budget for it, a grand piano can be a great investment.
How do you pick a piano?
When choosing a piano, you will need to consider your budget, the size of the piano, and the type of music you want to play. You will also need to decide whether you want an acoustic piano or a digital piano. Acoustic styles of pianos are the traditional type of piano and they are played by striking the keys with your hands.
Digital piano models are newer and they use electronic sounds instead of acoustic sounds. They often have extra features such as built-in speakers and the ability to connect to a computer. If you are a beginner, you may want to start with an acoustic upright piano or with a digital piano depending on your budget.
Is it OK to learn piano on a keyboard?
Yes, learning piano on a keyboard is perfectly fine! It can be a great way to learn the basics of traditional piano playing. Keyboards are typically a lot less expensive than modern pianos, and they are much smaller and more portable.
Additionally, many keyboards come with built-in features that can help you learn to play the piano, such as metronomes and lesson modes. If you decide to learn piano on a keyboard, be sure to get one with weighted keys so that you can get a feel for how an acoustic piano would play.
A digital piano is made to feel and sound like an acoustic piano. Just some PC connectivity and several digital effects are typically included. Keyboards, on the other hand, have an arranger feature and can create a much broader selection of sounds. Many keyboards’ primary purpose is to serve as a MIDI controller.
Is it possible to learn piano in a year?
Yes, it is possible to learn piano in a year! However, it will take dedication and practice. If you are taking piano lessons, you should be practicing at least 30 minutes each day.
It also depends on the level you want to reach. There is a reason why it can even take 10 years to play the most complex classical pieces. Playing the piano is a skill you have to master over time.
In addition to practicing your scales and chords, you should also be working on sight-reading and ear training. If you can commit to this practice schedule, you will be able to play basic piano music within a year.
Can I learn to play the piano by myself?
Nothing prevents you from learning to play piano by yourself, but I don’t recommend it. That’s because as a beginner you won’t know if you are making mistakes and over time this incorrect way of playing can become hard to unlearn.
The best way to learn piano is to take in-person lessons from a qualified piano teacher who can give you feedback on your way of playing. If you are unable to have in-person lessons you can always find a teacher online.
Be sure to set aside some time each day to practice, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends or family members who may already know how to play.
Is learning piano hard?
This is a difficult question to answer because it depends on the person. For some people, learning to play the piano can come relatively easily. However, for others, it can be quite challenging.
The best way to find out if learning to play the piano is hard for you is to simply try it! Start by taking a few lessons from a qualified instructor. If you find that you are struggling, don’t give up. Keep practicing and seeking out resources that can help you improve.
Conclusion
Pianos are a great way to create beautiful music. They come in all different shapes and sizes, and there is a type of piano that is perfect for everyone.
We hope this article has helped shine some light on the different piano types available on the market today. As you can see, there is a lot to consider when making your decision. But ultimately, the best piano for you is the one that will help you create the music you love.