What are Pianos?♪
A piano is "a large keyboard musical instrument with a wooden case enclosing a soundboard and metal strings, which are struck by hammers when the keys are depressed. The strings' vibration is stopped by dampers when the keys are released, and it can be regulated for length and volume by two or three pedals." ~ From dictionary.reference.com
who invented pianos and when were they invented?♫
Pianos were invented by Bartolomeo Cristofori in 1700.
♩History♩
Bartolomeo worked as a craftsman, repairing harpsichords for Italy's Royal Court. He invented the first ever keyboard, he called, "gravecembalo col piano et forte." Translation: “keyboard instrument with soft and loud,” It was named for the dynamic sound that occurred when it was played. By 1730, pianos were purchased by Elite European's By the 1760's, piano were made smaller so they could be owned by richer families in their homes. In the 1770's, pianos had reached America. German immigrant and piano maker, John Behrent, had brought them. Many of America's songs composed on the piano had to do with American Revolution. After 1827, the piano increased in size, and in keys. This allowed more sounds and depth to the keyboard. Women were often ignored for playing the piano in public in the nineteenth century. with little exceptions. Despite the fact they were looked down upon for playing in public, woman were expected to know how to play, and teach their children. Many piano instructors were woman. Pianos were sometimes shaped to fit better into homes. Some were even created to make everyday tasks, like sewing, easier. Some pianos were turned into sewing tables. Due to the Industrial Revolution, piano factories were made. In the late 1800s and early 20th century, taking piano lessons became very popular, especially to children. Sadly, in the 1930's, piano sales greatly decreased, and often, they would have to sell coffins and gliders to stay in business. In the 1900's, African American's came up with their own style of music. They played ragtime and jazz, which also created new dances. Pianos were also played for religious beliefs, to inspire inspiration. In the early 1900's, pianos that play by themselves, player pianos, were invented. It could play by itself, allowing families to sing to wha it played. player pianos outsold real pianos up until the Great Depression. They kept pianos going as technology developed in movies and the radios. Piano manufacturing took over in Asia, were leading producers like Yamaha came to be leading producers. The piano has been around for over three hundred years, making it one of the oldest 'living' instruments today.