Keyboards – history, varieties and role in music

Keyboards – it is one of the most versatile and influential categories of musical instruments in world culture. They cover a wide range of mechanisms and sounds: from classical piano to electronic synthesizers. They are used in classical, jazz, pop, rock- and electronic music, and also in the cinema, theater, churches, schools and home studios. In this article, we will consider the history of the development of keyboard instruments, their main types, structure, principles of action and influence on musical art.

Historical development of keyboard instruments

The first prototypes of keyboard instruments appeared in ancient times. They include hydraulics – ancient greek instrument, which operated using water pressure. However, the real development of keyboards begins in the Middle Ages.

1. Organ

Organ – one of the oldest keyboard instruments. Its design is based on air pressure, which passes through the pipes, making sound. The first organs were used in Christian churches as early as the 8th century.

2. Harpsichord, clavichord, virginal

In the XV-XVII centuries, instruments appeared, which can be considered the forerunners of the piano. Harpsichord (harpsichord) had strings, which pinched the pens when pressing the keys. The clavichord had a softer sound and allowed for dynamic control.

3. Piano

Piano (from Italian. "piano" – "loud and quiet") invented by Bartolomeo Cristofori at the beginning of the 18th century. Its special feature was the mechanical excitation of the strings with a hammer, which made it possible for musicians to vary the volume of the game depending on the force of pressing the keys.

Classification of keyboard instruments

Modern keyboard instruments are divided into several categories:

1. Acoustic keyboards

Tools belong to this category, that do not use electronics to create sound.

• Piano (grand piano and piano): It has a hammer mechanism, soundboard and strings.

• Organ: It has numerous pipes, keyboard (manuals) and a pedal keyboard.

• Harpsichord, clavichord: Historical instruments with a characteristic sound of the Baroque era.

2. Electromechanical keyboards

These instruments originated in the 20th century and combine mechanical sound excitation with electrical amplification.

• Electric piano (example, Rhodes, Wurlitzer): Sound is created using metal reeds or rods, which are excited by hammers.

• Electroorgan (Hammond): Creates sound using rotating tone wheels and magnetic coils.

3. Electronic keyboards

These instruments are completely based on electronics and digital technology.

• Digital piano: Simulates the sound of a piano using samples or physical simulation.

• Synthesizer: Creates sounds through wave generators of various shapes.

• Midi keyboard: It does not make a sound on its own, and transmits signals to a computer or other device.

Structure of keyboard instruments

Regardless of the type, most keyboards have one thing in common – keyboard, consisting of white and black keys. The standard keyboard has 88 keys (7 octave), however, some digital models may have less – 61, 76 or even 49 keys.

Except for the keyboard, keyboard instruments may have:

• Pedals (in piano and organ)

• Volume control knobs, tone, effects (on synthesizers)

• Touch panels, slidery, joysticks, displays (in MIDI controllers)

The role of keyboards in music

Keyboard instruments are of great importance in music:

1. Solo game

The piano allows you to perform as a melody, and accompaniment at the same time, making it an ideal solo instrument. The same applies to organs in church music.

2. Accompaniment

Keyboards are actively used as an accompaniment in vocal music, ensembles, jazz bands and pop groups.

3. Orchestra music

The piano is often used as part of a symphony orchestra, especially in the works of XX-XXI centuries.

4. Music production

Modern music studios cannot do without synthesizers and MIDI keyboards, which serve as the main interface for creating electronic music.

5. Education

Keyboard instrument – the basis of musical literacy. It is easy to learn musical notation on them, develop hearing, rhythm and coordination.

Advantages and disadvantages of different types of keyboards

Interesting facts

• In a classical orchestra, keyboard instruments are most often represented by a piano or celesta.

• In the 20th century, synthesizers became a symbol of the musical revolution – they formed the sound of disco, ass, techno and EDM.

• Organs in some cathedrals have to 20 000 trumpets and are considered the largest musical instruments in the world.

Conclusion

Keyboard instruments play a central role in the development of world music. Their evolution – it's the way from ancient wind organs to high-tech MIDI controllers. Due to its versatility, wide range and flexibility, keyboard instruments remain an indispensable element of the musical space – as for professional musicians, and for newcomers.

Regardless of the selected type – piano, synthesizer or digital piano – keyboard instruments open up endless possibilities for creativity, learning and emotional expression.