The piano is one of the most fascinating and comprehensive instruments in the musical landscape. It is, in fact, one of the main protagonists of the greatest compositions that have marked the history of music.

Its origins are very interesting and date back to the early 1700s. Naturally, at that time, the piano did not have the mechanical precision we know today, but the instrument that would later captivate every composer was beginning to take shape.

Its history begins in Italy, only to be revised multiple times in Germany and further refined in America. Its sound characteristics make it perfect for every musical style, and while in previous centuries it was reserved exclusively for the upper class, starting from the 20th century, it has become one of the most widespread instruments across all social classes.

Today, everyone can choose to study piano, either by purchasing one or renting it. In addition to traditional models, more accessible and portable electric alternatives have been developed.

Although it remains an expensive instrument, it is considerably more accessible than in the past. Anyone wishing to begin studying the piano should be interested in the history of this fantastic musical instrument, which originated from the harpsichord.

To play it at its best, it is essential to understand its central role in the history of modern music. Its development is fascinating and rich, spanning several centuries that have been chronicled in specialist texts.

This is why, in this article, we will cover a highly intriguing topic for piano enthusiasts: how it is built, to understand how every small part of the piano requires precise and specific craftsmanship.

The prices of pianos: as high as the complexity of their construction

A piano, especially a grand piano, is a significant investment. Professional models can exceed 20,000 euros, and these costs are justified, as we will see, by the choice of high-quality materials and the complex process of constructing these instruments. They are indeed technical masterpieces, the result of years of innovation and improvement.

To fully understand the reasons for the high costs, it is essential to delve into the manufacturing process of a piano, characterized by complex elements.

Of course, technological innovation has simplified the production process, but the fundamental principles have remained unchanged over time. Certainly, some raw materials have been replaced, especially those used for making the keys.

Previously, ivory was preferred, but for animal conservation reasons (rhinos and elephants are endangered species), this material has been replaced by high-quality synthetic plastics that mimic the finish of ivory.

Although old pianos with ivory keys can still be found on the market, it is important to note that using this material is now strictly prohibited.

How is the basic structure of a piano created?

The first step in building a piano involves creating the basic structure. The material used, in most cases, is high-quality wood. Maple is preferred, which is shaped to create the main boards that will form the “skeleton” of the piano, namely the frame. Naturally, dimensions and shapes vary depending on the type of instrument being created, whether a grand, baby grand, or upright piano.

The various boards are glued together, then pressed using a special machine. This machine also shapes the different pieces, giving the piano its contour.

Drying times are lengthy and are needed to produce a solid and sturdy structure. Once the required days have passed, the boards are moved to a special area where the frame glue continues to dry, aided by air conditioners.

The boards are left in this area for a month, after which they are reinforced with beams that give the structure more solidity.

How are two fundamental components of a piano made: the soundboard and the case?

The next step after creating the piano frame is to add all the elements needed to produce its captivating sound. At this stage, the case is installed between the frame and the soundboard.

The soundboard acts as the amplifier of the sound produced by the vibration of the strings when the keys are struck. The soundboard is struck by various vibrations, thanks to another crucial piano component, the bridges. This precise mechanism amplifies the sound wave.

The bridges are two small wooden supports that transmit the strings’ vibrations. They are placed above the soundboard, while below it, wooden slats allow it to resonate freely.

After assembling these parts, the two bridges are protected by a cast iron plate, which is precisely placed to ensure the entire mechanism works perfectly.

The next step is crucial. Notches are carved into the bridges to house the strings. Three strings are placed in each of these slots. This step requires great skill and precision, as the strings are one of the most important elements for a piano’s sound and must vibrate freely.

Building the external section of the piano

The external part of the piano is made using different wood than that used for the frame. In this case, high-quality materials like rosewood are used.

The various sections are refined with planes, shaping every detail of the instrument’s outer section and creating the necessary curves. This process is even more complex when making a grand piano, where the rear section is much larger.

The next phase involves sanding the surface, making it smooth and ready to be varnished and polished.

Creating the stringing

An indispensable element in a piano is the stringing, which is built to maintain tension on the various strings. This part is closest to the keyboard, and the strings extend to the bridges.

The cast iron plate, as mentioned earlier, is placed on the soundboard and is fundamental in controlling the strings’ tension.

The strings are attached to the stringing via special pins, installed at this stage of the piano’s construction. Their structure is very similar to the pegs of a guitar.

Of course, what changes significantly is the tension the elements inside the piano must endure, which can exceed 180 kilograms. For this reason, this delicate phase must be carried out by skilled personnel using specific tools to manage the tension of each string.

Once this step is complete, mutes are installed to stop vibrations when the pianist releases the key. They are not engaged when the performer uses the sustain pedal to maintain the note’s sound.

How are the keys and hammers of a piano made?

The hammers are made of very durable wood, such as hornbeam. These elements withstand strong force when the pianist presses the key, striking the corresponding string, which vibrates and produces sound.

Immediately after, once the performer releases the key, the hammer returns to its original position, aligning with the others. This section of a piano is very sophisticated and requires regular maintenance and tuning, which must be performed by a professional. Typically, these operations are carried out at least twice a year.

The hammers are connected to the keyboard. During the piano assembly, these parts are tested multiple times through specific checks to verify the weights, ensuring the pianist applies the right amount of force when pressing a key.

Small weights are installed inside the keys, giving each key a specific weight. This technique is known as “counterbalancing” and determines the touch and weight of the keys.

This is the mechanism that modern digital pianos aim to replicate, providing pianists with feedback similar to that of a traditional instrument.

Once this phase is complete, the piano construction process is finished.

As we have seen, it is a complex and lengthy process involving many steps, checks, and detail reviews to ensure the high sonic and mechanical quality typical of pianos.