Is there really a big difference in performance between the design of an upright or grand piano? The short answer is, yes! When Bartolomeo Cristofori developed the first pianoforte, his design was most similar to the harpsichords of his day. This saw the instrument laid out in a horizontal (or grand) fashion. It could be said that the grand piano is the default design for the instrument. Beyond the differences in aesthetics, there are several key areas in which the vertical and horizontal designs separate.
The action. The action inside of a grand piano has developed over the years with performance in mind, with no regard to space savings. As the downward keystroke throws the hammer straight up into the strings, the force of gravity returns the hammer to its resting position. When properly regulated by a trained piano technician, this ensures incredibly quick repetition to suit the needs of demanding musicians. The action of an upright piano is compressed into a vertical design. This is for space savings and compromises to the piano’s responsiveness are required in this design. When both types of actions are properly regulated, the differences in touch and responsiveness between the two are clear. That being said, don’t count out a quality upright piano! Much work has gone into bringing them as close in action performance as possible over the years.- Sound projection. The horizontal design of a grand piano provides a clear space underneath the piano, in which the soundboard can cleanly resonate. The open lid allows for sound to bounce off of it, projecting it into the room. In a grand piano, the soundboard space is maximized in its use. An upright piano is most often placed against a wall, muffling the rear of the soundboard’s performance. The front of the soundboard is covered by cabinetry. These are simply limitations of an instrument design that has been compressed to save space.
- There are a number of other details such as pedal/damper performance, ease of regulation, potential initial build quality, and more that can separate grand and upright pianos. However, it must also be mentioned that they are often built to fulfill a specific niche and must be considered within that context. For example, expecting to fit a Steinway Concert Grand Piano into an apartment is typically not practical. (Unless you are Ben Folds…)
Are digital pianos up to snuff when compared to acoustic pianos? The short answer is no… but with some caveats. Much like the grand vs upright debate, digital pianos can and do fulfill a specific need. Do you have multiple people practicing in the same home or professional space or have to play late at night? Being able to plug in a set of quality headphones and go into silent mode could be exactly what you need. Concerned about how difficult it might be to move around a heavier upright piano? An easy-to-wrangle digital might be your best option. Doing some recording work? Easy digital connectivity is essential. Digital pianos do not need tuning and can be the preferred choice in areas where humidity swings are uncontrollable.
Also, over the past decade, digital pianos have made huge leaps when it comes to the feel of the action and accurate sound reproduction. Kawai offers a number of digital piano models that feature real wood keys and complex mechanisms that replicate the feel of grand piano actions. [Contact us today if you are interested in learning more about Kawai digital pianos.]
Where do your clients come from? You seem to sell a lot of pianos in the area! Over the past several decades, we have built a reputation for quality work and dedication to piano craftsmanship. This has allowed us to expand our clientele from local to national – and sometimes international! Clients seeking pianos travel from all over to tour our smalltown shop and showroom. You wouldn’t initially expect to find a piano shop in the farmlands of Northern Indiana, but we invite you to be surprised! We just might be Michiana’s best-kept musical secret! [Book a selection appointment today.]
About Chupp’s Pianos – Since 1975, Chupp’s Piano Service, Inc. has been serving the piano needs of the music community by focusing on the restoration and rebuilding of vintage, historic pianos. Located in the heart of Northern Indiana, our work has grown to become the preferred choice of numerous concert venues, institutions, and pianists around the world. Founded by Master Piano Technician Dennis Chupp, our family-owned and operated business has been trusted with the restoration of heirloom instruments from across the nation. Our team understands the nuances and exacting precision needed to ensure a piano that is truly tailor-made for your tastes and playing preferences. Chupp’s Pianos is always excited to partner with musicians in the pursuit of musical artistry. The Chupp’s Piano Rebuilding Facility and Showroom feature an uncommonly large selection of vintage Steinway & Sons, pre-owned Yamaha, and New Kawai pianos for you to play and select from. Interested or have questions? Get in touch with our team today.
Chupp’s Piano Service, Inc. – Piano Restoration & Service – Vintage Steinway & Sons – New Kawai – Family Owned & Operated Since 1975
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