In this video, we uncover three peculiar design differences between Asian and American pianos that might just leave you scratching your head. From unexpected keyboard heights to puzzling bench sizes, these quirks challenge conventional expectations. Join us as we delve into these intriguing mysteries and seek answers to questions that have baffled pianists worldwide.
Pianos are fascinating instruments, and some design differences can leave even seasoned players scratching their heads. Let’s dive into a few intriguing quirks between Asian and American pianos that might surprise you.
1. Keyboard Height: A Lift in Asian Pianos
Ever struggled to fit your legs comfortably under a piano? Interestingly, Asian pianos often have keyboards set slightly higher off the ground than American models. You’d think there’d be a standard height, right? But no, this variation exists, and the reason remains a bit of a mystery.
2. Bench Heights: The Lowdown
Adding to the puzzle, the benches that come with Asian pianos are generally lower than those paired with American pianos. So, higher keyboards but lower benches—what’s up with that? Considering that people in Asian countries are often of smaller stature compared to Americans and Europeans, this design choice seems counterintuitive.
3. Key Lengths: A Stretchy Situation
Here’s another subtle difference: the keys on Asian pianos are slightly longer than those on American pianos. Pianists with larger hands might find themselves accidentally hitting the fallboard when switching from, say, a Yamaha (an Asian brand) to a Steinway (an American brand). Some older pianos even have shorter keys than the current American standard.
Seeking Your Insights
These quirks—the elevated keyboards, lower benches, and longer keys in Asian pianos—raise some curious questions about piano design standards. Why do these differences exist? If you have any theories or insights, we’d love to hear them! Share your thoughts in the comments below.
At LivingPianos.com, we’re all about exploring the unique aspects of pianos and sharing that journey with you. Thanks for joining us, and we look forward to your input!
—Robert Estrin
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