Lecture on the Evolution of the Piano

Introduction

• The lecture discusses the evolution of the piano, focusing on the differences between early pianos (like those used by Mozart) and modern pianos.
• Demonstrates how the design and sound have changed over time.

Early Piano Mechanics

• Action Mechanism: The action sits on a sled; care is needed not to break any hammers.
  • Hammers are leveraged up, and a lever pushes a beak past the escapement.
  • Allows hammer to hit the string and fall back without a "thunk."
• Hammer Material: Hammers are covered with deerskin, using either the shiny or fuzzy side. This piano uses the fuzzy side.
• Components:
  • Key lever
  • Hammer
  • Back check to prevent bounce
  • Escapement for hammer return

Sound Characteristics

• Tone Color Change: The sound changes with dynamics, especially from soft to loud playing.
• Range Characteristics:
  • Treble sounds similar to woodwinds (e.g., clarinet).
  • Bass has a reedy quality, suitable for orchestral performance.

Differences from Modern Pianos

• No Pedals: Dampers are lifted with the right knee.
• Moderator: Left knee interposes felt for a muted tone, not present in English pianos.
  • Provides a unique tone color, similar to a harp.
  • Was used until around the 1830s.

Historical Context

• Viennese/South German Pianos: Used by composers like Mozart. Smaller and entirely wood-framed.
• Transition to Modern Pianos:
  • Early modern pianos (1850s-60s) include the American Steinway.
  • German Steinway example from Hamburg.

Modern Piano Characteristics

• Construction:
  • Solid bottom and full cast iron plate.
  • Laminated wood case curved and steamed over a month.
• Pressure: Supports about 30 tons of pressure.
• Range: Expanded from 58 to 88 notes.
  • Modern pianos have very long strings and increased volume.

Comparison of Sound

• Mozart Example: Demonstrated on both early and modern pianos to highlight differences in sound and tone.
• Tone Color Consistency: Modern piano maintains tone color across dynamics, focusing on volume changes.

Conclusion

• Each historical piano served its era's music best.
• Studying historical instruments can influence modern performance techniques.
• Musicians might choose to play on both historical and modern instruments for a comprehensive understanding.