Most people think a piano is for playing lovely music. Classical or pop or jazz flows from the keys. But did you know that there are other things that a piano can do? Read on to find out three unusual uses of the piano…
1: Percussive sounds
A pfno is both a string and percussive instrument. But did you know that you can create more percussive sounds by putting objects between the strings? Composers such. John Cage did this and the technique is called “prepared piano” It cant be done with an upright piano, as all the objects will fall to the bottom of the piano. A grand piano is best for this. People have put every thing from wire to screws between the strings. It makes for great variety of sound while playing. The strings can also be plucked and your imagineation can can run riot.
echo chamber
By removing the front panel of the piano, and opening the lid, a echo chamber can be created. And can sing and speak and your voice will be echoed back to you. It can be a lot of fun while singing a song, as you can have a bit of a natural reverb effect.
The Piano Can play Itself
This last one is just a bit of fun. Press down the left pedal and keep it down. Then pump the sustain pedal up and down rapidaly. This will cause the piano to start playing hc. It plays random notes, and you never know what you might get. The more you do this, the louder the sound gets. Have fun as you do this… I know my students love to try it.
