The argument supporting the idea that a piano is a percussion instrument is based on the fact that when a key is pressed, a hammer inside the piano strikes a string, resulting in a percussive sound. This action of striking is a characteristic feature of percussion instruments, placing the piano in that category.
And now, in greater depth
The argument supporting the idea that a piano is a percussion instrument is based on the mechanism by which sound is produced. When a key is pressed on a piano, a hammer inside the instrument strikes a string, resulting in a percussive sound. This action of striking is a characteristic feature of percussion instruments, placing the piano in that category.
To further support this argument, it is interesting to note the historical context and development of the piano. The modern piano evolved from earlier keyboard instruments such as the harpsichord and clavichord, which initially produced sound through plucking or striking strings. Over time, the design of the piano evolved to include an elaborate system of hammers and strings, which accentuated the percussive nature of its sound production.
Famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven once said, “The piano isn’t just an instrument, it’s a reflection of the soul.” This quote highlights the significant role the piano has played in the history of music and the recognition of its unique sound.
Here is a table comparing the characteristics of the piano with other common instruments:
Instrument | Primary Sound Production | Classification |
---|---|---|
Piano | Hammer striking strings | Percussion |
Violin | Bowing strings | String |
Trumpet | Air vibrating valves | Brass |
Flute | Air passing over a hole | Woodwind |
Drum | Striking a membrane | Percussion |
In conclusion, the argument that supports the idea that a piano is a percussion instrument is rooted in the mechanics of sound production. The striking action of the hammer on the strings aligns with the defining characteristic of percussion instruments. The piano’s historical development and significance in music further validate this argument. As Beethoven eloquently expressed, the piano is not just an instrument, but a reflection of the human soul.
See a related video
This video discusses how playing an instrument benefits your brain by enhancing neural processing and memory functions.
See more answer options
The piano is a percussion instrument because sound comes from something hitting another object. When you press a note on the keyboard, a hammer strikes the string that produces the note. The vibrations produced by the strings are initiated by hammers hitting the strings rather than by plucking or by moving a bow across them. Therefore, the piano falls into the realm of percussion instruments.
When the strings vibrate, they produce sound. On a piano, however, those vibrations are initiated by hammers hitting the strings rather than by plucking or by moving a bow across them. So, the piano also falls into the realm of percussion instruments.
The string that produces the note is struck by a hammer when you press a note on the keyboard. The piano is a percussion instrument because sound comes from something hitting another object. Instead of hitting a drum, you’re hitting the strings of a piano.
In my opinion, yes. It is not a string instrument because although the strings DO make the sound, the strings have to be hit by a hammer, a “percussive” action. And for the hammer to move, the key must be pushed, again a “percussive” action. One hits the key, the key makes the hammer hit the string, and the note sounds. THE PIANO IS A PERCUSSIVE INSTRUMENT.
Also people ask
According to the Hornbostel-Sachs system, a system that classifies musical instruments, piano belongs to the percussive chordophone family.
Here, pianos fall squarely into the family of chordophones, instruments that produce sound by way of vibrating strings.