There are many options when purchasing a piano, which raises questions vital to the players’ and listeners’ satisfaction. The two major concerns are sound and touch. Budget, appearance, name recognition, and value are also considerations. These secondary deciding factors are essential, but the primary topics of sound and touch are the most important things to look for in a good piano.
The Piano’s Response to the Player
The piano’s proper response to the player creates a sense of extension or partnership between the instrument and the artist. Some people prefer a piano with a heavy touch. This gives the advanced player more control over dynamics and subtle playing techniques. It is comparable to professional race car drivers using manual steering to feel the car on the road. This piano touch is not suitable for everyone. This type of action can be laborious and unrewarding, from novice children to casual adult players.
Piano Action
Similarly, a light action has advantages and disadvantages. This ease of play can be rewarding for the beginner and casual player, as it allows us to play for more extended periods without tiring. More straightforward music is more straightforward to perform and requires less effort. To the accomplished player, however, a light action may not feel like there is enough control. Light actions also have a “bounce” to them, which is not conducive to rapidly repeating keystrokes.
A piano action has varying degrees of light to heavy response. The manufacturer’s intended use frequently determines the variation. With thousands of parts in the piano action that produce the feel, even two identical pianos of the same make and model can feel different. On more expensive pianos, this feel can be tailored to the artist’s preferences and desires.
Piano Sound
Sound is one of the most subjective choices when looking for a good piano. Many people evaluate piano sounds based on their previous experiences. They’re looking for a sound from their childhood, school, or a performance. Some people recognize that they prefer a darker sound, while others prefer a lighter sound.
Darker-sounding pianos are frequently used by solo pianists and for classical music repertoire. Their depth of sound allows the music to be more focused. Lighter-sounding pianos are frequently preferred by ensemble players and those who perform pop/jazz/rock. The lighter sound can penetrate and rise above the rest of the band. There is frequently also just a personal preference for the instrument’s sound.
The piano’s sound is supposed to immerse both the player and the audience in an emotional aural experience. The music, player, and listener are to merge into a greater musical sum than all the parts—or so the hope goes. The piano’s response is also a tactile component of the performance. It enables the performer to use the piano as an extension of their musicianship rather than a tool.
Evaluation of Touch and Sound
It is critical to spend extra time evaluating touch and sound. When purchasing a piano, many people request that the piano[s] be played for them so that they can concentrate on the sound. They then choose the best touch of the best-sounding pianos. When the pianist’s touch and sound are just right, the audience will feel like they are a part of the performance. This is true whether the performance is at home, in a classroom, club, or in a concert hall.
Taking extra time to evaluate touch and sound is essential when looking for a good piano. Often, when someone is buying a piano, they will ask that the piano[s] be played for them so that they may focus on sound. Then, they select the best touch of the best-sounding pianos. When the touch and sound are correct, the pianist can make the audience feel like they are part of the performance. This is true when the performance is in the home, classroom, club, or concert hall.