Definition
The upright piano, also known as a grand piano in some contexts, is a type of piano that stands on its side, rather than being built into a curved frame like a concert grand piano. Upright pianos are characterized by their smaller size and compact design, making them more portable than grand pianos. The term "upright" is derived from the physical orientation of the instrument.
Origin
The upright piano originated in the early to mid-1800s with Johann Friedrich Steinway's invention of a piano that could be played on a horizontal frame, known as the Steinway Model 1. Steinway’s innovation was based on his desire to create a piano that could be easily transported and used by musicians who needed a more compact instrument for home practice. The upright piano's design has evolved since then, but it retains its basic structural features.
Structure
A standard upright piano typically consists of a soundboard, strings, hammers, pedals, and a case. The soundboard transmits the vibrations from the strings to the air. The strings are tuned to specific pitches that produce musical notes when struck by the hammer. The hammers are attached to the strings by mechanisms called levers and are used to strike the strings and generate sound.
Notable Examples
Notable examples of upright pianos include the Steinway Model U, the Kawai GX-100, and the Yamaha P-125.
Piano Connections
The term "upright%20piano" is most closely tied to classical piano repertoire. However, other musical genres often incorporate upright pianos as well, including jazz and pop music.