As a way to commemorate Piano Day, let’s take a moment to learn about this elaborate instrument.
The history of the piano is the history of its role in society.
The first piano was invented by Bartolomeo Cristofori of Padua around 1700. Cristofori was appointed to Florentine court of Grand Prince Ferdinando de Medici and he created the pianoforte in his honor. What was different about the pianoforte compared to previous harpsichords is that it allowed the player to alter the loudness and tone. The harpsichord was limited to one, unvarying volume. Over time, the pianoforte evolved to accommodate different sounds. For example, in 1808, inventor Sébastien Érard created first piano with agraffe, which enabled a more aggressive use of keyboards and hammers. This sound contributed to popular works by classical composers, such as Beethoven and Mozart.
In 1830, the name “pianoforte” was shorted to “piano.” Several years later, grand pianos grew in popularity. The Steinway piano company, founded in 1853, became one of the best piano companies and is still in operation today.
As the piano evolved, the instrument became more affordable for the middle class. Many families took advantage of the opportunity to have a piano because it allowed for sufficient loudness to entertain large audiences, filling large rooms and concert halls with a harmony of sounds. Newspapers and other forms of media advertised pianos, piano lessons, and sheet music, as seen below.
Featured in May 18, 1917 Perth Amboy Evening News.
There was a time where it was believed that homes were not complete without a piano.
Featured in December 11, 1909 Newark Evening Star and Newark Advertiser.
But do not worry because, for kids who believe, Santa can provide!
(Contributed by Kristi Chanda)
References
“The Piano: The Pianofortes of Bartolomeo Cristofori (1655-1731). Metmuseum.org. Received from www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/cris/hd_cris.htm.
“Timeline of Piano – The Journey to the Modern Piano.” (2021). Piano Timeline – From First String Instruments to Modern Pianos, www.historyofpiano.net/piano-history/timeline-of-piano/.