Grand pianos have a distinct look to them. Picture it now, sitting in the middle of a stage. Long and graceful, the lid propped up, the tonal quality deep and rich.
That’s what comes to mind in the center of a concert hall. But what if you own a grand piano? Is it wise to keep the lid open all the time? What’s the purpose?
On top of a grand piano is a wooden cover called the lid. It’s hinged at the spine, and has the ability to raise and lower depending on the discretion of the piano player.
In order to raise the lid, a grand piano has a wooden stick called a lid prop. Most pianos also come with a smaller stick called a half prop. These sticks give you the ability to control the way your piano sounds as you play.
A raised lid serves as a reflecting device for the way sound waves move from the depth of the piano outward into the room. The waves come off the internal soundboard and are reflected outward to the audience.
Lid props also have the important job of being able to hold the weight of the piano lid. The larger the piano, the heavier the lid, the more weight the lid prop will have to take.
While most grand pianos have two lid props, you will find some even have three. The different sizes will each have an appropriate cup holder on the underside of the lid. It’s essential to use the right cup with each lid prop, as the lid won’t be properly supported otherwise, and could lead to a dangerous situation. If it falls, it can severely damage the inner working of your piano. And if you or a family member is anywhere near, it can cause severe injury.
Should I Buy a Piano or a Keyboard?
Keyword: piano or keyboard
Summary: If your child has expressed an interest in learning to play the piano, the first place to start is by investing in a new instrument. Piano or keyboard, which should you choose?
As a parent, you want your kids to try many things. And it doesn’t take a lot of looking to realize you can quickly fill up their days with plenty of things for them to do. Sports? A painting class? Music?
While sports keep their bodies physically active and helps build team spirit, music builds self esteem and improves everything from coordination to comprehension. If you want them to perform better in their STEM classes, music is the way to go.
Once you decide to enroll your child in music, piano lessons are one of the best instruments they can learn to play. No other instrument is as versatile as a piano. Melody or harmony, playing alone or with a group, there’s something for everyone when learning to play the piano.
But if you’re ready to enroll your child in piano lessons, they have to have a piano to practice. Piano or keyboard? Which should you invest in if you don’t already own one?
What’s your price range?
For an acoustic piano, you have lots of options. You can select a good used piano, or go with a new piano if you know it’s going to be in your life for years to come. Acoustic gives you the ability for classic training, while keyboards offer extras to help budding artists digitize their work. With both pianos and keyboards, there is something for everyone. Consider your choices wisely.
How mobile do you want to be?
With an acoustic piano, your practice will be limited to the location of your instrument. With a keyboard, you can pack it up and take it with you. Mobility can be especially good for teens that wish to be part of a band, or take their instruments to college. But for classic training, having a great acoustic piano to play will give them added benefits to their play.
How will you play?
Keyboards offer the ability to plugin and play without anyone having to hear it. But don’t discount acoustics if you desire this feature – many can have this ability implemented, making it easier to practice in busy households.
Are you prepared for upkeep?
With an acoustic piano, it will need tuning regularly. And depending on where you purchase it from, it might need repair work. Keyboards don’t require the same upkeep with tunings, but they can require upgrades as your child grows and changes in ability.
No matter what your preference is for selecting the right equipment for your needs, the best place to start is with learning about your options. We’re happy to share our knowledge and love of pianos with you anytime. Just stop by.
