My family says they dread the moment whenever we bump into friends, because as soon as any
of them asks about or mentions the piano, I start talking for hours on end about it. While my family loves this musical instrument as much as I do (although I may love it more!), it is not something they like to talk about when they meet their friends.
My love for pianos started at a very young age and I only have my grandparents and parents to thank, as they had introduced me to them. I was in awe when I learned that pianos come in various types and sizes. For those who are only beginning to learn more about this musical instrument, it will be good to know that they will learn much more about the piano in this blog post:
Vertical Pianos
They are known as vertical pianos due to the position of the piano strings and their height. Their heights range from 36’ to 60’ and they come in four different types:
– The Spinet
This piano stands at 36’ to 38’ and the width is normally about 58’. Spinets are the smallest of all the pianos put together. Due to their size, they are a wise choice for people who reside in apartments or have limited space in their house. Spinets were very popular, but more and more people began to realize that due to the lack of accuracy and power, they could not compete with other smaller pianos such as baby grand pianos. For this reason, spinets are no longer available.
– The Console
Consoles stand at 40’ to 43’ and are about 58’ wide. They are relatively larger than spinets and come in different finishes and styles. Those who want a piano that can complement their home décor should consider a console. Consoles are constructed with a direct action, which means they emit more improved tones.
– The Studio
Studio pianos are regularly utilized in music studios, conservatories, and schools. Their measurements are 45’ to 48’ in height and approximately 58’ wide. Due to their larger soundboards and longer strings, they produce excellent tonal quality and are very sturdy.
– The Upright
Uprights are the tallest vertical pianos with heights ranging from 50’ to 60’, and their width is approximately 58’. Upright pianos are also known as “grandmother’s piano” because they are pianos that your ancestors used to play. If you take proper care of this particular instrument, it can last a lifetime in terms of aesthetic and sound.
Horizontal Pianos
These pianos are known as horizontal pianos due to the placement of the piano strings. They are also called grand pianos because of the finer tones they produce and most responsive key action they provide. Grand pianos come in six types such as follows:
– The Petite Grand
The smallest in this category, a petite grand stands between 4’5” and 4’10”. Although very small, it can produce an amazing, powerful sound.
– The Baby Grand
A baby grand piano ranges from 4’11” to 5’6” and is very popular due to its affordability, tonal quality, and aesthetic appeal.
– The Medium Grand
Medium grand pianos are larger than baby grand pianos. They stand at 5’7” and due to their size; they are sought after by both intermediate and advanced players.
– The Parlor Grand
Parlor grand pianos are rather big and they are about 5’9” to 6’1” in width. They are also known as the living room grand pianos.
– The Semi-concert or The Ballroom
This musical instrument is about 6’2”, but you can find one that is as wide as 7’. It is normally used in hotel ballrooms and concerts.
– The Concert Grand
Concert grand pianos are the largest of all the grand pianos and they are about 9 feet wide. You can find concert grand pianos in conservatories, symphony concerts, and ballrooms.
Which type of piano do you own?