Insights into Piano Keyboard Diversity
- Aleksandra Tepliakova
- May 20, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 1, 2024
As a pianist with small hands, every detail of the piano becomes significant. One might assume that the keyboards of different pianos and grand pianos are identical in size, but through my exploration, I discovered surprising differences.
I measured six pianos: my Yamaha CLP-725 electric piano at home, four grand pianos at the conservatorium - Yamaha C3, Steinway&Sons B, Grotrian-Steinweg, and Erard, - and one grand piano from Stadkamer in Zwolle Bosendorfer. Interestingly, the Yamaha keys had consistent sizes, the Steinway, Grotrian-Steinweg keys were notably shorter, when the shortest keys has Erard grand piano. As we can see in the table below, the difference is noticible - 1,3 cm. The length of the balck keys varies from 8,7 cm up to 9,2 cm - the different is just 0,5 cm. Moreover, the gaps between keys varies from 0,5 to 2 mm, a seemingly minor difference that can become crucial for a pianist with small hands, especially when compounded over many keys.
In my survey, I asked pianists if certain keyboard features affected their performance, focusing on weight, shape, length, and depth.
Key weight emerged as the most common concern, chosen by 13 respondents. This is understandable, as heavier mechanics can require more power to play. Additionally, pianists noted that keyboards become softer and more playable over time. The once firm and rigid keys gradually soften, becoming more responsive and easier to play. This transformation isn't merely coincidental; it's a result of the natural wear and tear that occurs with prolonged use.
Key depth followed closely behind, affecting 9 respondents.
Key shape and length had lesser impacts, chosen by 6 and 2 respondents respectively. In addition to key shape, it's worth noting that older pianos often have "softer" keys. Over time, and after enduring the touch of countless fingers, sharp key edges gradually become more rounded. This transformation not only makes playing less painful, especially for those like myself who may experience discomfort, but also contributes to a smoother playing experience overall.
3 pianists reported that all features affected their performance, while 2 claimed none had an impact.
Personally, I believe that every aspect of the keyboard influences piano playing. Each millimeter matters and can affect the final result. Despite years of practice, pianists often accept the keyboard as it is, unable to change or adapt it.
Therefore, having a rehearsal before a concert in a new venue becomes crucial. As pianists without our own instruments, we must adapt to the instrument provided by the concert hall. 12 pianists, including myself, expressed feeling stressed when performing on a new instrument, while 5 felt it sometimes, and only 1 barely. Remarkably, 2 almost never experienced such stress.
In conclusion, for pianists with small hands, understanding and adapting to the nuances of different keyboards is essential for achieving optimal performance.
You are welcome to share about yourself and your opinion in my survey! Follow the link below!
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