Call them grand pianos, or alternatively grande piano, piano grand, piano grande. The word "grand" itself conjures up images of magnificence, splendor and grandeur. The true meaning of "grand piano" however, is a large piano with horizontal keys, which doesn't really do the term any justice.
In this article we are going to look at what makes a grand piano so special in the eyes of the piano player, making them one of the most coveted musical instruments world wide.
To start with, grand pianos are large. A baby grand piano can start at 1.5m ( 4' 11") long. Parlor grand pianos fall in the range of 1.7 to 2.2 m long, and a concert grand piano between 2.2 m to 3 m (up to10' 1" long). While a small upright piano may weigh 136 kg (300 lb), a Steinway concert piano grand can weigh in as much as 480 kg (990 lb).
Grand pianos have their strings placed horizontally, moving away from the keyboard. Their frames are also placed horizontally. Grand pianos enable improved restraint as the hammers use gravity to return to their position. Grand pianos also have a repetition lever that is not present in upright pianos. This results in staccatos, trills, and repeated notes to be played with more control and speed than with the upright piano. As an example, an accomplished pianist will be able to play 7 trills/second on an upright, but can double this to 14 trills/second on a grand piano. Indeed, Steinway grand pianos claim to have the fastest and most responsive piano action in the world. Basically, on a grand piano, you can repeat and trill notes as fast as your very own fingers can go. Imagine, being limited only by the amount of time you have spent practicing your scales and arpeggios!
Most grand pianos are still hand crafted. Since ivory has become illegal to use as keys, natural woods are now used. External finishes include natural woods like maple, birch and mahogany. Many grand piano makers will allow you to custom finish your pride and joy to match your elegant decor.
Did you know that Yamaha pianos have an "Elton John Red" grand piano in their catalog? Yes, it is red. The ultimate in fan memorabilia!
Now to go with your grand piano you will need a spacious room with high ceilings. The high ceilings are essentially to set off the acoustics. Smaller baby grands are designed for domestic use, while the larger full size grands are for public performances.
Would you prefer a traditional acoustic grandpiano or the newer technologically advanced digital grand piano? Some piano companies like Yamaha are now incorporating real piano keyboards and actions with the ability to record your music and connect to the Internet. Giving you the sensation of playing an authentic grand piano with the convenience of a recording studio at the end of your fingertips!
Majestic? Yes. Splendid? Yes. Grand? Absolutely, in every sense of the word!
