Monday, October 18, 2010

Music Lessons - History And Role Of The Piano In The Modern World

By Aikednea Johansen

The modern piano established its form from 2 keyboard instruments, the clavichord and the harpsichord, which originated from early in music history. These keyboard instruments operate on the principle of direct connection between the applied force or pressure of the player on the keys, and the volume of sound. Which means, the harder the pressure or force the player applies on the keys, the louder the sound of the instrument; the lighter the touch, the softer the sound.

Earlier musicians, nevertheless, encountered a problem with the clavichord and harpsichord: the sound was fairly diminutive when compared with how they would have wanted it to be, considering the fact that keyboard instruments were frequently played in large rooms (chambers), cathedrals and churches.

Approximately the year 1700, Italian instrument maker Bartolomeo Cristofori (1655-1731) made the new keyboard instrument and coined its name from the very fact that it could both play "piano" (soft) and "forte" (loud), dealing with the problem of the old keyboard instruments. Thus, the pianoforte, or what we call shortly now as the piano.

Aside from the direct connection between the fingers on the keys and the sound, the piano likewise has 2 different pedals which are the "sustain" or damper pedal and the "soft" pedal. The sustain pedal allows the pianist to hold the tone or sound despite releasing the key. The soft pedal veils or muffles the sound. There's as well a third pedal known as the "sostenuto" pedal. However, not all pianos have this.

Other sorts of keyboard instruments include the pipe organ which has been most popular from 1600-1750, when it was generally used for church music and considered then as the "king of instruments". The accordion is also another kind of keyboard instrument, as well as the modern organ and electric keyboard.

The function of the piano in the modern world is very versatile. The piano can handle a wide variety of musical types from classical to pop to jazz. It can appeal to a wide range of audiences from music connoisseurs in concerts or artists in theatres, to children and pupils in pre-schools. Extremely noticeably too, piano students can very well play many other instruments too, even without its formal training.

The piano is also a very relevant tool in the culture of society. Ever since the turn of the 20th century, several households have been able to acquire their own piano. From this assessment, we can infer that modern society is convinced in the benefits of studying music and piano in particular.

In nearly every gathering (social, religious and even political), a person cannot undermine the important role of music. It expresses ideals. It bonds the youth. It provides for a positive, productive & creative channeling for this generation's aggression and collective angst.

The importance of music on the development of a person, and at some point, of society can't be understated. Maybe it is time to rethink how this important element of cultural and social development in our society has been treated.

- 2361

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