Who Invented the Piano?

One of the highly popular musical instruments, the piano is versatile enough to be used as an accompaniment, as part of chamber music as well as ensembles. Aside from these interesting qualities, there are much more to learn about it including its history. To understand the historical aspect of this important musical instrument further, it is good to know who invented the piano.

 

The Invention of the Piano

Who invented the Piano? Bartolomeo Cristofori , who was once a maker of musical instruments in Italy, was credited for the invention of the modern piano. He lived from 1655 to 1731. He developed the instrument some time in the 18th century, when he worked as the Keeper of Instruments for Prince Ferdinand Medici. Furthermore, he perfected the complicated mechanical aspects of the piano design. Aside from this, he was also credited for inventing other instruments, particularly the oval spinet and the spinettone.

Additional Facts and Other Interesting Details

Until now, three of the original pianos created by Cristofori are in existence, all of which dates back as far as the 1720s. The first one is dated 1720, which is currently found in New York, particularly at the Metropolitan Museum. The second one is dated 1722, which is in Rome, specifically at the Museo Nazionale degli Strumenti Musicali. The third one dates back to 1726, which is situated at Leipzig University’s Musikinstrumenten-Museum in Germany.

 

The different types of piano include the grand piano, the upright piano, the studio piano and the console piano. The grand piano is characterized by the horizontal arrangement of strings and frame. Meanwhile, the upright piano is also referred to as the vertical piano, which is more compact in terms of design. The studio piano is known for its short structure, which stands about 42 to 45 inches high. The console piano is shorter than the studio piano, and is recognized for its shorter hammers. There are also other types, namely the prepared piano, transposing piano and silent piano.

The piano has contributed a lot to society. It played a highly important role in the development of Western classical music. Add to that, it has been featured widely on television and film. Furthermore, it is also used in jazz music. A typical piano is made up of parts like the capo bar, damper and frame. Additionally, it also has a soundboard, a hitch pin as well as pedals. Beethoven, Mozart and Haydn are amongst the notable names in music who widely used the piano as instrument during their times. Likewise, the same also goes for Johannes Brahms, Felix Mendelssohn and Robert Schumann.