What comes to mind when you hear the word piano?

When most people think of pianos, they imagine two classic types: the upright and the grand. What if I told you the world of pianos is far more diverse – and in some cases, downright surprising?

From compact hybrids to digital marvels and even pianos designed for the outdoors, there’s a whole category of instruments that go beyond what you’d expect.

Whether you’re a curious beginner, a seasoned pianist, or just someone who thought there were only “two kinds,” this list might just change the way you think about the piano entirely.

Let’s dive into the types of pianos you probably didn’t even know existed – and why they’re worth knowing about.

The “Floating Piano”

Imagine walking into a room and seeing a piano where the only thing attached to the ground is the stool!

The Floating Fazioli, is an extraordinary piano designed by the engineer and pianist, Paolo Fazioli, the founder of Fazioli Pianos.

Fazioli blended his technical expertise with his passion for music, creating remarkable instrumental pieces that push the boundaries of normality.

One would think a floating piano is held up by strings, yet The Floating Fazioli’s entire structure is supported and anchored by the wall.

How’s that for engineering? Even the pedals don’t touch the ground!

Fazioli is a person of remarkable intellect, taking a simple piano design and transforming it into a piece of art.

Some of the most expensive pianos ever are created by the Fazioli Piano company.

Fazioli’s “Floating Piano” is only one of his many brilliant inventions.

Pianist magazine, the ultimate resource for anyone who loves playing piano, published an article about some of Fazioli’s most extravagant pianos which is definitely worth reading. Read the article here: https://www.pianistmagazine.com.

The “Silent Piano”

Many pianists find playing on a digital keyboard unsatisfying because of the differences in key touch and responsiveness compared to an acoustic piano.

On the other hand, others struggle with the limitations caused by the volume and noise produced by traditional acoustic pianos, which can restrict practice times or environments.

Imagine, then, a piano designed to replicate the authentic feel and appearance of a classic acoustic instrument, yet equipped with the capability to adjust or mute its volume at will.

This concept is precisely embodied by what is known today as the Silent Piano.

Just like a regular acoustic piano, the Silent Piano also has the same internal structure – but prevents the hammers from striking the strings and instead uses censors to capture your keystrokes.

It then triggers a digital sound that allows it to be heard through headphones.

This type of piano is ideal for those who desire the authentic look and feel of a traditional acoustic instrument, yet live in close quarters or have sound-sensitive neighbours.

Yamaha was the first company to develop and produce these types of pianos in 1993, offering consumers their very own Silent Piano.

Find out more about YAMAHA’s Silent Piano here: https://europe.yamaha.com

The “Player Piano”

Known for its remarkable ability to play on its own, the Player Piano is as if a ghost possessed the instrument.

The self-playing piano uses a complex mechanism to play music automatically, allowing one to enjoy the music without actually pressing down a key.

Although many had the same idea of creating a piano playing by itself, it was Edwin S. Votey who was the first person to successfully commercialise and popularise the instrument, which is also referred to as the Pianola.

Self-playing pianos, while more familiar to the public than some of the more obscure piano types, often don’t receive the recognition they truly deserve.

These fascinating instruments offer a unique dual functionality – they can be played manually like any traditional piano, but they also have the remarkable ability to play music on their own.

This makes them perfect not only for pianists who want to enjoy hands-on playing, but also for those who simply want to sit back and listen as the piano performs pieces automatically.

The “Toy Piano”

Also known as the kinderklavier, the Toy Piano is a miniature, piano-like instrument often used by children.

Its external design closely mirrors that of a traditional piano, offering the same timeless aesthetic appeal – but operates differently.

Instead of strings, the Toy Piano uses metal rods.

The hammers inside the instrument strike the metal rods, causing them to vibrate and create a bell-like sound.

Toy Piano’s typically have between 8 to 37 keys as opposed to the standard 88 keys on regular pianos.

According to immigrantentrepreneurship.org, it was first created in the late 1800s by Albert Schoenhut – a German-American toymaker.

The instrument was originally made for children, hence the name, yet gained attraction to such an extent that some models are used professionally and even considered collectible.

John Cage, an American composer and music theorist, composed a whimsical and charming piece exclusively for the instrument called Suite for Toy Piano.

Click this link to find out how a toy piano typically sounds: Mozart – Rondo Alla Turca (Turkish March) Medley on Toy Piano

Conclusion

Reading about these fascinating and unexpected types of pianos might not have been on your radar before – but they’ve definitely made it onto mine.

It’s incredible to realize that only a handful of these quirky, inventive, and downright brilliant piano variations are covered here, and yet they already hint at how wildly creative the piano world can be.

So, the next time you find yourself thinking about pianos, your mind will likely go far beyond the usual grand or upright models.

From silent pianos and toy-sized marvels to digital hybrids and see-through showpieces, it turns out the world of pianos is far more diverse than most people ever imagined.

And now? You’ve got a pocketful of intriguing piano facts to impress fellow musicians, or to break the ice in small talk with something way more interesting than the weather.

When your choice gets narrowed down to buying either an upright or a grand piano, it is good to weigh out all the options before making the final decision… But what are the options?

In this article, we will take a look at a few different aspects and characteristics of both types of pianos, as well as exploring the price range to help aid in your decision.

These pianos typically agree when it comes to the basics, but differ in other things with the main difference being the design and structure of the piano.

If you are in the market searching for a piano, use this article as a guide to help with your choice.

The Design and Structure

The physical difference is always the easiest way to tell these two apart, but do you know why they differ?

Upright:

An upright piano is a vertical piano where the soundboard and strings are placed vertically, hence the vertical structure.

Normally the cabinet (frame) is made out of wood with a variety of materials used for the internal design, accompanied with two or three pedals.

It is more suitable for smaller spaces due to its compact nature without compromising too much on quality, functionality or technicality.

According to a piano tuner on pianotechniciantuner.com, the size varies depending on the type.

Upright pianos are split into four categories namely spinet, console, studio and the normal full size/upright piano.

The spinet, being the smallest of the four, is usually 91-100cm tall and even uses a different mechanism.

Console piano’s height ranges from 100-112cm and a typical studio piano is 115-117cm tall.

Both the console and studio piano have compact soundboards, but do not produce as great sound as a full sized upright piano normally does.

An upright piano averages between 122-153cm tall with the internal mechanism design being more complex than grand pianos!

Grand:

Known for its elegant design, grand pianos’ structure revolves around its horizontal soundboard and string arrangement.

The broad and extensive internal structure allows for a richer and more powerful tone.

The outer design usually consists of a high-quality wooden frame and rim, some even being made out of glass!

Grand pianos also typically have two or three pedals, but are more likely to have three.

These pianos range from 117-244cm in length and are usually 153cm wide. Just like upright pianos, grand pianos can also be categorised into different sizes.

There is a wide variety of sizes, the smallest being the Petite/Baby Grand and the largest; Concert Grand.

In between these two are the Parlor Grand, Professional grand, medium grand, large grand and semi-concert grand.

Sound Quality and Performance

Generally, the larger the piano, the richer the tone.

This is due to the fact that larger pianos have longer strings and larger soundboards which contributes to a richer and more resonant tone and sound.

Upright:

Just because this instrument is compact and space-efficient, it should not be overlooked!

Upright pianos still create resonant, rich and crisp sounds – but obviously not on the same level of fullness as grand pianos do.

The shorter strings and smaller soundboard definitely limits some sound and tone potential, but depending on your needs, the upright piano could be better suited to your needs.

In my opinion, playing on an upright piano is nothing too special, but that could be because I have played on an upright my entire life.

It is rather nice that you can put the piano in a small space and still be able to get the most out of it, where the grand requires a lot of space.

Grand:

Grand pianos generally have better sound quality in nature, thanks to its longer strings and larger soundboard that allows for a greater vibration.

Even the foot pedals on grand pianos are more responsive and create a better sustain.

Due to gravity and the natural layout of these pianos, the responsiveness of the keys is faster than one would typically find in an upright piano.

Just like an upright piano, grand pianos’ normally have 88 keys.

Playing on a grand piano definitely leads you into another world.

I feel extremely professional and powerful when I get the chance to play on a grand piano.

I might be a little biassed, but playing on an upright does not come close to playing on a grand piano.

Which one do you prefer?

Cost and Maintenance

Having a budget helps narrow down all the options, but your choice should still be the best one possible.

Upright:

Upright pianos are mostly less expensive than grand pianos and this goes without saying.

Uprights are also more common and more accessible.

Thus the maintenance will also be cheaper than on grand pianos.

On Yamaha London Music’s website upright pianos range from £3000-£30,000 – but buying second hand is always an option.

Basic maintenance usually costs £80-£100.

Grand:

Richardlawsonpianos.com offers grand pianos starting from £17,000 to over £40,000.

Basic tuning can cost about £100-£160, but the price quickly hikes to about £500 when properly servicing it.

Did you know, some of the most expensive grand pianos reach over £1.8M!

Conclusion

We have looked at only the first part of differences between the upright vs grand piano, but hopefully your mind is already leaning towards one in favour.

If I had no budget, I’d definitely go with the grand piano. In my opinion, its elegant design and incredible sound projection are simply unmatched which is truly something to fall in love with!

Of course, having the space and money for it is key.

Thus it is more important to live within your means and boundaries as to preference.

But whether you’re drawn to the splendour of a grand concert instrument or the practicality of an upright, I hope part one of this article has helped you move closer to choosing the piano that suits your space, lifestyle, and musical goals best.

Looking to level up your piano playing?

This guide is your short and sweet introduction to understanding piano pedals—what they do, how they work, and why they matter.

What Are Piano Pedals?

In a nutshell, the pedal is a foot-operated lever that alters the sound of the piano, making it possible for a greater expression and control that a pianist would not be able to achieve with hands alone.

You would typically find three pedals on most pianos; the sustain pedal, soft pedal and middle pedal— each one serving a different purpose.

Although, it is more common to see only two pedals on especially beginner-level pianos, leaving out the sostenuto pedal.

A Brief History

Did you know that the earliest pianos didn’t have the familiar foot pedals we use today?

Instead, they were equipped with hand stops or knee levers to alter the sound.

These early mechanisms served a similar function—sustaining or softening notes—but they were far less convenient, often requiring the player to stop or shift position mid-performance.

It wasn’t until the late 18th century that foot-operated pedals began to appear, eventually becoming standard as piano design advanced and musical expression became more delicate.

Pedals play a vital role in shaping the piano’s tone and emotional depth.

They allow pianists to sustain notes, blend harmonies, and create smooth, connected phrases.

Without pedals—especially the sustain pedal—music would sound dry and detached, reminding me of early Baroque piano music, which relied on instruments such as the harpsichord that lacked dynamic range and natural sustain.

In modern playing, pedals are essential tools for creating resonance, atmosphere, and expressive power.

Let’s explore what each pedal does and how to use them effectively.

Sustain Pedal (Right Pedal)

The sustain pedal, often called the damper pedal, is responsible for increasing the longevity of notes even if the keys are released.

The sustain pedal does exactly what is revealed in its name, it sustains the sound.

How It Works:

In simple terms; when you press your foot down on the pedal while also pressing some keys, it lifts all the dampers off the strings, causing the notes to reverberate— regardless of whether said keys are still played or not.

Inside the piano, the damper prevents a string from continuous vibration so that once your fingers are lifted off the keys the vibration making the sound also stops.

The right pedal in essence ‘removes’ the damper allowing the strings to continue vibrating until the pedal is released.

Musical Effect:

The musical effect of this pedal is it creates a warmer, richer and resonating sound.

It also allows the pianist to smoothly transition from key to key while keeping it in legato, especially in cases when hands cannot achieve the same effect, like blending harmonies together.

On top of all that, the sustain pedal is perfect for creating a beautiful atmosphere.

Although the sustain pedal is as useful as it sounds beautiful, an overuse of it can blur melodies and harmonies— losing the music in the sound.

Thus, it is important to use it with care.

A common mistake I see often (and sometimes do!) is pressing the foot down at the wrong time when timing is everything.

To avoid this, simply press the pedal down after playing a note or chord, and only release it when the next note or chord is played.

Soft Pedal (Left Pedal)

Also known as the Una Corda Pedal, the Soft pedal lives up to its name, softening the sound by diminishing the force of impact of the hammers on the strings.

How It Works:

It works differently on a grand piano than on an upright piano.

On a grand piano, the entire keyboard and action shifts slightly to the right, resulting in the hammers striking only two strings for each note instead of its usual three.

Originally the hammer would only strike one string, hence the name una corda which means “one string”, but today it usually hits two strings.

Meanwhile on an upright piano, the hammer will move closer to the strings instead of shifting sideways.

This allows the hammer to strike the strings in a different way, leading to a quieter sound.

Musical Effect:

The musical effect of this pedal is it creates a quieter and more profound sound.

Effective use of the pedal results in a subtle but vibrant and warmer tone. The soft pedal highlights softer passages and lyrical melodies.

It is often used in impressionist and Romantic music to assist in musical expression among other things.

The soft pedal is also useful for pianists who want to reduce the volume to practise quietly, or accompany a lead singer.

Sostenuto Pedal (Middle Pedal)

Unlike the other two pedals, the sostenuto pedal’s purpose cannot be easily extracted from the name alone.

The sostenuto pedal holds notes that are already being played at the moment the pedal is pressed down, but not doing the same to notes that are played after that.

Kind of like a selective sustain pedal.

How It Works:

The way it works differs from upright to grand pianos.

For grand pianos it only sustains the notes that are held down at the time you press the pedal via keeping the said notes’ dampers lifted while the others function as normal.

This is called a true sostenuto.

Whereas on upright pianos, the middle pedal usually functions differently, like as a practise pedal that kills the sound by placing a piece of cloth (felt) between the strings and hammers, or as a bass sustain.

True sostenuto pedals are quite rare on upright pianos, especially your entry level pianos.

In the end, the main reason for using a sostenuto pedal is to sustain selected notes while others remain unaffected.

It is not often used in modern day and is also considered relatively rare due to the cost of the complex mechanism it adds to the piano.

Conclusion

The pedal is probably the most underrated component of a piano, but they are essential to expressive playing.

Knowing and understanding how each one works, and how to use it effectively, can be the key to elevating your musicality.

In short: don’t just play the piano—make it sing!

Imagine this: you’re a pianist living in a small London flat, with thin walls separating you from your neighbour, and you can only practise at night due to work and other obligations— except you are probably already living in this reality!

According to plumplot.co.uk, the average flat size in London is under 55 square meters. That is not even 4 full rooms!

For many pianists living in London, it is impractical to own an acoustic piano with the little space they already might have.

There are other solutions to this problem–one could hire a piano, or book a music room with a piano inside to practise.

Yet in the long run, it can be highly demotivating due to the inconvenience thereof.

It can also become quite costly if you want to make it a regular type of thing.

This beckons the question: would it be better to switch to a digital piano?

Let’s explore the effects of having an acoustic or digital piano in a London apartment.

Problems with Acoustic Pianos in London

Size and Weight

Acoustic pianos can take up a surprising amount of space—even upright models, which are often thought of as compact.

In a typical London flat, where every square metre counts, sacrificing a significant portion of your living area to accommodate a large and heavy instrument may not be the most practical choice.

Of course, there are those dedicated pianists who are more than happy to give up space for the love of their instrument. But this isn’t aimed at them.

I’m talking about people—whether individuals, couples, or families—who want to enjoy the richness of piano playing without having to compromise too heavily on comfort or functionality in their homes.

Noise Restrictions

Always trying to control the volume of an acoustic piano is not easy or enjoyable.

A pianist would want to be able to freely express themselves without being a nuisance–I know I sure would!

The last thing your neighbours want is to return home from a long day of work only to be greeted with the screeching sound of false melodies.

An acoustic piano might send you more than noise complaint letters.

Cost of Maintenance

Acoustic pianos need to be tuned at least once a year to ensure their pitch and overall condition is maintained.

A standard piano tuning typically costs between £80 and £120. Of course, that is for only basic tuning.

Additional services like regulations, pitch raises or other servicing will increase the price.

I believe that if you have the funds and love for the piano, go for it!

Although, if you find the cost of maintenance is not worth what you are able to get out of it, you might want to consider getting a digital piano.

Mobility and Moving

It can be quite expensive to get pianos from place of purchase to a small London flat, risking potential damages like scratches and dents.

Even worse, the piano might look fair, but could have taken on a few hits and bumps—damaging the internal components.

It can also become quite a nuisance if needed to move around the apartment often.

Luckily you need not worry about your piano falling through a properly built apartment floor, but you do need to concern yourself with preparation for moving the instrument into your apartment.

Why Digital Pianos Are Better for London Homes

Compact Design

One of the biggest advantages of digital pianos is their compact and lightweight design.

Many models are built to be portable, making it easy to move them from room to room—or even store them away when not in use.

Unlike traditional acoustic pianos, which can dominate a space, digital pianos require significantly less room and are far more adaptable to smaller living areas.

If you’re someone for whom space is of importance—as is often the case in London apartments—a digital piano offers a practical, space-saving solution without compromising on the joy of playing.

Volume Control

Digital pianos have come a long way since they were first introduced, and one of the most exciting features thereof is being able to control the volume!

Being able to play during any time of day without needing to play softly is a different kind of liberation for pianists.

Your neighbours will definitely thank you for this one!

Low Maintenance

Unlike acoustic pianos, digital pianos need not be tuned once a year.

Instead, most maintenance can be done through wiping down keys with a soft cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.

Steinway & Sons advises to service digital pianos once after the first year of use, then at least once every 3 to 5 years.

Obviously some might require more attention, but for the majority of digital pianos you most probably do not need to service it like an acoustic piano.

Affordability

It is no secret that digital pianos are praised for their affordability.

Acoustic pianos start at around the £3000 mark, which can still be quite expensive for some people.

Whereas the price for an entry level digital piano starts at just 150 pounds!

Obviously putting the quality aside, the price difference is monumental.

Technological Features

The title speaks for itself.

Digital pianos offer a bunch of different functions and features that acoustic pianos do not have.

Imagine being able to play the organ, harp, and even strings—all on one instrument!

I personally love tampering with a digital piano’s technological options, because when I get tired of one sound, I can easily switch to a different one!

Conclusion

Imagine this: you are living in a small London flat, thin walls and limited space.

Previously you had to compromise comfort for limited piano play time.

Now, you can practise wherever you want, when you want, and without settling for less space.

In a city where space is gold and quiet neighbours are in demand, a digital piano is not only a want but a need!

With every brushstroke, an artist brings their masterpiece to life — revealing beauty layer by layer.

Similarly, piano makers and designers sculpt their instruments not only to produce sound, but to inspire awe with their visual elegance.

Music is art, a phrase quite often used to describe the beauty thereof.

The Oxford dictionary describes art as the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated for their beauty or emotional power.

Yet somehow the word art does not feel powerful enough to truly captivate the majesty of the piano — both audibly and visually.

In this article, the progression of the piano and its design will be discussed.

When Music Meets Design

Around the year 1700, Bartolomeo Cristofori (a genius Italian maker of instruments), the revolutionary piano was born.

Pianos have come a long way in terms of design, structure, aesthetics and more.

The following reveals a timeline of the most notable innovators and inventors and the impact they made on piano regarding its functionality and design.

1700s: The First Piano

The lack of controlling the dynamics spurred on Cristofori to invent a harpsichord, replacing the usual plucking mechanism with a hammer which created the first piano.

Thus it resembled a harpsichord.

It has a plain, wing-shaped exterior with a single keyboard and no special stops which can alter the tone.

On the outside, it pretty much looked exactly like a harpsichord, but had a totally different interior.

Cristofori called it a “gravicembalo col piano e forte” which translates to “harpsichord with soft and loud” — allowing pianists to now have dynamic control.

Late 1700s – Early 1800s: Classical Refinement and Development

The case and structure design of the piano slowly but surely becomes more elegant, with veneered woods and modest ornamentation.

A sudden shift in the demand for harpsichords has changed drastically, as all the more upright pianos begin appearing in people’s homes.

A fine craftsman named John Broadwood married Barbara, the daughter of Burkat Shudi — who owned a business in making harpsichords.

Later on, Shudi handed over the running of his business to both his son and John Broadwood.

After Shudi’s passing, the business became his son’s and his son-in-law’s.

By popular demand, due to the shift the invention of the piano caused, Broadwood found himself making more pianos than harpsichords!

He continued to develop the piano, improving the bass tone.

Today the business is known as Broadwood & Sons, and claims to be the oldest established manufacturer in the world.

Sébastian Érard, a brilliant piano and harp maker, specialised in the production of these instruments, enabling him to develop the capacities of both.

He contributed to grand piano engineering and revolutionized the construction of the grand style of piano.

Érard pioneered a grand piano mechanism that laid the groundwork for the modern grand action we know today.

His invention of the “double escapement” system, which introduced a repetition lever, made it possible to strike the same note rapidly without fully releasing the key — a major leap beyond earlier single-action designs.

And that was just one of his many forward-thinking contributions to piano technology.

Mid 1800s: Romantic Era

During the Romantic Period in Europe, pianos became a symbol of wealth and sophistication. Art case pianos featured intricate woodwork, gilded carvings, and floral inlays.

Steinway & Sons, now one of the world’s leading piano makers, unveiled the first square piano featuring a groundbreaking scale design that dramatically improved sound quality — setting a new standard that future manufacturers would follow.

Pianos evolved from square pianos with horizontal strings to more compact upright models with vertical strings.

Yet the increasing demand for compact upright models soon replaced all square pianos, thanks to the rapidly growing industrialized city planning that led to smaller urban spaces.

1900s: Minimalism and Mass Production

As pianos became more accessible to the growing middle class during the 19th century, their popularity soared.

Instruments of this era were often highly ornate, crafted from luxurious, dark exotic woods such as Honduran Mahogany and Brazilian Rosewood, perfectly mirroring the Victorian era’s preference for rich, elaborate designs.

However, by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a gradual shift in aesthetic tastes, with the demand for lighter finishes like oak and walnut beginning to increase.

Technological advancements brought significant changes to piano manufacturing.

The Industrial Revolution allowed the transition from individually handcrafted instruments to more efficient factory production.

This shift led to greater standardisation, making pianos more affordable and giving rise to simpler, more streamlined designs.

By the late 20th century, the emergence of digital pianos further transformed the landscape, offering a modern alternative that blended technological innovation with musical tradition.

2000s – Present: The Piano as a Masterpiece

Recently, piano design has entered an exciting new era, with designers teaming up with artists and architects to create modern, eye-catching instruments that are as much works of art as they are musical tools.

While classic wood finishes like mahogany, ebony, and walnut remain popular, there has been a noticeable shift toward bold and contemporary colour options — including white, grey, red, and even metallic finishes.

Some brands have pushed boundaries even further, producing stunning transparent acrylic or crystal pianos that turn heads in both private homes and concert halls.

This creative wave took off in the early 2000s, as cultural trends began to embrace individuality and artistic expression more openly.

That spirit of innovation extended to the piano world, where manufacturers began offering more luxurious, unconventional, and intricately designed instruments — reflecting both technological advancements and changing aesthetic tastes.

Conclusion

The piano has undergone significant changes in both exterior and interior design. It truly is a piece of art — a blank canvas, waiting eagerly for someone to bring it to life.

RESOURCES:

1.1: What Is Art? – Humanities LibreTexts

A brief history of john broadwood & sons pianos (no date) History of John Broadwood & Sons Pianos. Available at: https://broadwood.co.uk/history.html (Accessed: 16 April 2025).

The evolution of the modern piano (facts, photos and Timeline): Blog: Lindeblad Piano (no date) Lindebladpiano. Available at: https://www.lindebladpiano.com/blog/history-of-the-piano (Accessed: 15 April 2025).

I used to think learning the piano was just about playing all the right notes— boy, was I wrong.

Most pianists cringe a little when they mention they play piano—because without fail, someone will ask them to play Für Elise or River Flows in You.

Even worse, someone might say they “play piano,” but can only manage a few chords or a short tune with questionable form they picked up online.

That said, whether someone can play well or not isn’t the point — what truly matters is that they enjoy it.

Still, it got me thinking: What do people really think about playing the piano? So I ran a little experiment of my own.

I asked a bunch of non-musicians to tell me their impression of the piano, and honestly, some of their answers surprised me.

Almost every single one said things like the piano is an elegant and emotional instrument, it creates luxurious sounds, etc.

But what stood out most was that a few said playing the piano feels outdated — even unimpressive — because “anybody can do it.” Ouch.

But here’s the thing: they’re right. Anybody can play the piano — but not everyone can play it well.

Anyone can paint too. The same goes for painting. You can pick up a brush, but what separates a doodle from a masterpiece is skill and expression.

The same principle applies to piano playing — it’s not just about playing, but how you play.

So, if you are a beginner wanting some tips to avoid common mistakes most make at the start, you are in the right place.

Here are a few mistakes most beginners make when starting their piano journey.

1. Using the Pedal is a Technique in Itself

I see more often than not people playing the piano for fun, keeping their foot grounded on the right pedal — as if the piano will fall over if not held in place!

I can joke about this because I was the number one suspect when it came to using the pedal.

The correct way to use the right pedal is to press down after you play a chord so that it almost ‘captures’ it in a sense.

Keeping your foot down, only after you have played the next chord do you lift your foot up quickly, allowing the previous chord’s sound to fade away, and place it back down again.

Repeat this process for every chord, unless otherwise specified in the music sheet. It allows the music to flow freely without awkward silences.

Playing the pedal with proper technique prevents the notes from blending and smudging, since it has a significant impact on the clarity and sound.

2. There’s a Difference Between Playing and Expressing

My piano teacher always used to tell me, “Don’t just play to get it over with. Play to celebrate it!”.

She used to drive me crazy with her confusing requests and I never quite understood what she said until in my later years of playing piano.

She meant not only did I need to play with emotion and expression, but also mean it.

It is impossible to put it into words the difference between playing just to play and actually playing with emotion.

Suddenly there is depth, love and richness coming from each sound.

Your piano deserves respect in every aspect, treat it as such even through playing!

3. Progress isn’t Linear

As a beginner, you are often told it will always get better.

What if I told you that sometimes it won’t?

The harsh truth is that there definitely will be times where it feels like you are regressing, but these are the moments you learn the most.

Once you get a breakthrough it feels like all the struggles were worth it— and they totally are!

With learning anything new, you need to get comfortable with the uncomfortable.

We live in a world where delayed gratification is treated like a curse. Learning the piano will take time and you will not always see progress.

It can take days, weeks and months to truly see progress.

Yet time is going by anyway, might as well utilize it to the best of your ability and use it to learn the piano.

4. Your Form Has More of an Impact Than You Think

Yes, there is a way to sit, a way to shape your hands and a way to play.

Proper posture is important for overall musicality, comfort and injury prevention. It will enable you to play for longer periods of time and help relieve tension for you to play with smoothness effectively.

Aim for a straight back, sitting towards the end of your seat, with your feet flat on the floor.

Obviously you want to sit in the middle of the piano, but what do you do with your hands that need to stretch to the other side of the piano?

You simply lean towards it with your whole body, trying to keep the same length away from the piano the entire time.

Keep your elbows aligned with the piano and try to maintain a relaxed yet firm posture for your whole body.

It is very important to avoid slouching!

When playing, your hands should be slightly arched as if you are curling your fingers around a make-believe ball — although, not too round.

Also remember to lean in to the keys when playing.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, you can play the piano however you want — but learning solid technique and avoiding beginner pitfalls makes your musical journey smoother and more rewarding.

Some play for fun, others aim to master it — but no matter where you fall on the spectrum, understanding these basics gives you a stronger foundation.

Playing piano isn’t just about pressing keys — it’s about creating something meaningful.

So don’t just play for the sake of it. Play with intention, expression, and maybe even a little pride!

Have you ever walked through the streets of London and been suddenly swept up by the captivating sound of a piano, thinking to yourself as a street performer, ‘What a perfect spot—why didn’t I think of that?

Piano street performances truly are an art that blesses every ear walking past.

I personally look forward to hearing piano street performers entrance their audience whenever I travel to places that partake in it.

There is nothing as refreshing to the soul as live music under an open sky.

Although busking sounds amazing when looking at the receiving side, it is quite hard and requires a different type of humility and courage to perform in public like so.

Yet it is vital to not neglect the importance and significant role street performers play.

Why Piano Buskers Are Important

Free Entertainment

Not everyone has the money to buy tickets to an extraordinary pianist’s concert. Piano street performers make it possible for anyone to listen to their music.

It is highly accessible and does not cost a cent!

Yet most if not all piano buskers partake in street performance to make some money, so it is encouraged to give them a tip – whether big or small – to express your gratitude and encourage them to continue!

Facilitating Social Exchange

Sometimes all the community needs is a bit of music to bring them together. Funnily enough, piano street performances do exactly that!

Piano buskers can create an exuberant atmosphere, promoting locals and foreigners alike to pause and engage with each other. It is a fun way to meet new people and possibly make new friends with one interest in common already– music!

Potential Decrease in Crime

Some studies suggest having street performers perform in public spaces can arguably help prevent crime by promoting a positive environment attracting community and social interactions which discourages negative behaviour.

Buskers can attract more foot traffic, ultimately leading the public areas into safer and lively places and likely reducing the probability of crime and criminal behaviour.

Economic Benefits

Piano buskers can attract people from all over the world, giving the surrounding shops and business more and more exposure.

Many restaurants hire piano buskers to invite more customers, because more customers means more money, and more money means more spending, ultimately leading to boosting the economy.

As you can see, piano buskers have a remarkable influence in their spheres, highlighting the importance of street performances. Say you want to start piano busking or improve as a street performer, where you play music is crucial for many reasons.

You do not want to perform in areas that are prone to high crime or places that gain little to almost no audiences. Selecting the place of performance can sometimes be a tedious process since research has to be done.

Here are a few of the best spots for piano buskers to whisk their audiences away and also potentially make some money.

Best Spots for Piano Street Performances

Covent Garden

Website: www.coventgarden.london/experience/street-performers/

Probably one of the best if not the very best spot for piano busking, Covent Garden refers to street performances as its beating heart.

This tourist attraction brings local crowds and crowds from all over the world to experience something magical.

With many shoppers and pedestrians going about their day in Covent Garden, it is no doubt most of them will stop by to catch even a glimpse of an active street performance.

Magicians, musicians and many more make use of this public spot to deliver thrilling and captivating performances.

Covent Garden does have a high standard when it comes to their street performances.

Only skilled performers will be allowed to busk, so if you are a beginner this might not be the place for you yet. Visit their website for more information.

Leicester Square

Situated in London’s West end, Leicester Square is a renowned pedestrianized hub at the centre of the city’s entertainment scene, celebrated for its cinemas, theatres, restaurants, and lively atmosphere, hosting film premieres and celebrity-filled events.

There is no doubt how the square and its vibrant surroundings draw in over 2.5 million visitors every week!

It makes it the perfect place for pianists to showcase their skills and enthral audiences with their music.

Leicester Square is just as busy at night, making it possible for piano buskers to perform then as well.

Southbank Centre

This place has spectacular views of the river and the city, making it a popular place for both locals and foreigners, perfect for piano buskers to add to the exciting atmosphere.

Southbank Centre is a significant arts and entertainment district, central to London’s culture, and host to incredible concert halls such as the Royal Festival Hall, The Hayward Gallery, and the Queen Elizabeth Hall.

This famous arts centre facilitates over 5000 events each year, making it a hotspot for piano street performances.

Good-to-know

If you are new to busking yet quite intrigued, here are two things important to know before you start your street performance journey.

Money

Tips and donations can vary depending on the day and how impressive the performance is.

Street performances in London tend to make about £50 per hour, with some buskers making several hundred pounds on a successful day.

The amount of money you can make is influenced by various factors, yet I believe it is still worth it.

License and Permit

It is important to know that some areas, if not all, require a piano busker to have a permit in order to be legal.

Busking without a license in these areas can potentially lead to fines, equipment seizure, and even arrest.

Rather be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

Now that you’re familiar with some of the best spots for piano busking, it’s time to embrace your confidence, grab your instrument, and mesmerize audiences with the magic of live music in the heart of the city.

Related articles:

• Piano Buskers: The Significance of Audible Street Art
• A Pianist’s Guide to London

“Piano is one of the easiest instruments to learn.”

Every pianist has heard this before.Even though piano is a beginner friendly instrument, the more you advance the more you realise how difficult it really is.

Most people will only tell you about the easy things, yet are reluctant to talk about the hard parts.

The phrase implies that piano is not a hard instrument to tackle, but could not be farther from the truth for more advanced pianists.

What the phrase actually means is that learning piano is easier than other instruments due to the fact that when you press a key, it makes a sound.

Whereas other instruments, specifically wind instruments, there is a specific way in which you create a sound.

Let’s take a violin for example, there is a special technique for finger placement and how to use the bow to produce a desired sound.

If not done correctly, it creates a harsh and jarring cacophony. Which is not the same with a piano, but this is where most get it wrong.

There is a technique to pressing down keys to create a better sound, yet not many know this.

This article will uncover things about learning the piano that no one tells you about.

What Makes Learning Piano Difficult?

Do not let the piano fool you with its enthralling beauty and sound. Here are some of the top things that make learning the piano challenging.

Individual Finger Dexterity and Control

Challenge: Individual finger dexterity and control refers to the ability to move each finger independently and with precision, allowing for fine motor control and coordination.

It enables a pianist to play each note smoothly and accurately, with each being of the same duration. The pianist should be in control of each finger independently, being able to execute fast and complex movements without error.

Why it’s difficult: The difficulty lies in each finger not being as strong or competent equally. Weaker fingers, such as the pinkie and ring finger, do not have the same strength or agility to keep up with the other fingers.

It can lead to faulty playing and some notes having different durations than others. It also makes it harder to progress to more challenging pieces because of the lack of basic skills.

How to overcome it: Regularly do finger exercises that focus on strengthening each finger individually. Incorporate staccato finger exercises to your practise to make it more challenging.

Reading Sheet Music

Challenge: The ability to read and perform music from sheet music, without preparation is called sight reading. The challenge is to do so but without fault or error, while still maintaining emotion and expression while playing.

Why it’s difficult: You already have to focus on playing different things for each hand, now there is another element to focus on; sight reading.

Sight reading requires a good hand to eye coordination where you must quickly be able to read the music while also playing it. You cannot rely on memory to help you and it is difficult to focus on all the musical notations that accompany it.

How to overcome it: Sight reading is something you have to do as often as possible, as consistently as possible. Just like any skill, the more you do it, the more you will improve. Start slowly with easy sheet music, forcing yourself to keep a steady flow throughout the piece.

As you advance, you can add speed and take on more complex pieces. It is important to know that you should not compromise good playing just for the sake of being able to play more challenging pieces, since it can lead to creating bad habits.

Hand Coordination

Challenge: It refers to the synchronising of both hands to play complex music simultaneously while maintaining accuracy, fluidity and control.

Each hand has a different role to play. In most cases, the right hand plays the melody while the left one plays the accompaniment. Hand coordination requires both hands to play different things at the same time.

Why it’s difficult: Playing both hands together while each is playing something different requires a lot of mental focus, which can be quite tiresome. It can be hard to learn hand independence since most people’s hands are naturally dependent on each other.

Strain and tension can arise in the wrists and hands, preventing smooth and fluid notes. All these hurdles and obstacles can be discouraging, making it harder to find the motivation and discipline needed to continue.

How to overcome it: Start by practising slowly, focusing on getting everything right before adding speed. Use a metronome to help set a rhythm and speed to ensure the timing stays the same throughout the whole piece.

If one hand is particularly struggling, practise each hand separately.

Cultivating a Solid Sense of Rhythm and Timing

Challenge: To develop the ability to perceive and execute rhythmic patterns flawlessly, keeping a steady tempo throughout.

Why it’s difficult: To some people, rhythm does not come naturally and is a skill they need to learn. Some music pieces have complex rhythms and unnatural beats which makes it hard for the pianist to keep up and stay consistent.

How to overcome it: Practise with a metronome to focus on the beat, gradually increasing the speed as you become better and more comfortable. Break up complex phrases into smaller parts, practising the challenging segments over and over until you get it right.

Conclusion

Piano is one of the easiest instruments to learn, but it does not stay easy the more you advance.

This article should not scare you away, but rather enlighten you that there is a cost to wanting to be good at piano.

Just like there is a cost to everything good in life.

Learning something new is always challenging and improving on something is even harder, but sometimes the reward is worth all the pain.

What challenges are you choosing?