Piano
The piano is a versatile and majestic instrument with a long history. It was invented around 1700 by a man named Bartolomeo Cristofori, and it quickly became a favourite among musicians for its ability to produce both soft and loud sounds. The name “piano” actually comes from the Italian word “pianoforte,” which means “soft-loud,” reflecting this unique feature.
The piano works in a fascinating way. Inside its grand or upright frame, there are strings stretched across a wooden soundboard. When you press a key on the keyboard, a mechanism of levers and hammers is activated. These hammers strike the strings, creating vibrations that produce sound. The harder you press the key, the louder the sound, and vice versa.
One of the reasons why the piano is so beloved is its wide range of expression. It can play melodies and harmonies, making it suitable for various music genres, from classical to jazz, pop, and more. Many famous composers, like Ludwig van Beethoven, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Frédéric Chopin, composed some of their most beautiful and influential pieces on the piano.
Learning to play the piano can be an exciting and rewarding journey. It requires practice and dedication, but it’s worth the effort. Playing the piano allows you to express your emotions through music, and it can be a great way to relax and unwind.
Moreover, the piano has a special place in ensemble music. It often serves as the backbone, providing the harmony and rhythm that support other instruments or voices. In an orchestra, the piano is part of the percussion section, despite being a melodic instrument, because the sound is produced by striking the strings.
Today, there are various types of pianos available, from the traditional acoustic pianos to digital ones with modern technology. Digital pianos offer advantages like portability and the ability to use headphones for private practice.
So what’s this site all about anyway?
Well, if you ever find yourself needing music for anything – a YouTube video, a podcast, a school project, a presentation, TV commercial or even a film – then browse, preview and download any of our tracks