Tag Archives: living pianos

Understanding Piano Voicing: Warm vs. Bright

Welcome to LivingPianos.com, I’m Robert Estrin. The question today is: What is better, bright or warm voicing? Choosing between a warm or bright voicing for your piano can be a complex decision, but understanding what each term means can help you make the right choice for your needs.

What is Piano Voicing?

Voicing refers to the tone quality of a piano, which is influenced primarily by the hardness or softness of the hammers. Each of the 88 hammers in a piano must be individually adjusted to achieve the desired tone. This process involves not only adjusting the hardness of the hammers but also shaping them precisely and aligning them correctly. Regulation also plays a role in how the piano’s tone is perceived.

Factors Affecting Piano Voicing

Room Acoustics

The acoustics of the room where the piano is placed significantly impact its tone. In a small, acoustically bright room, a piano with a bright tone might sound harsh and overwhelming. In such cases, a warmer voicing can help mitigate this harshness. Conversely, in a larger space where the sound needs to travel farther, a brighter tone might be more suitable.

Musical Style

Your preferred musical style can also influence your choice. For example, a pianist who plays rock music might prefer a brighter tone for its cutting effect, while someone who plays new age music might lean towards a warmer, mellower sound to create soothing, sonorous qualities.

Playing Style and Power

The power and technique of the player are crucial considerations. A powerful player might prefer a piano with a broader dynamic range and warmer voicing to avoid a harsh sound, whereas a player with less strength might benefit from a brighter tone that requires less effort to produce sound.

Piano Types and Voicing

Different types of pianos naturally lend themselves to varying tonal qualities. For instance, American pianos like Steinway and Mason & Hamlin are often noted for their warmer tone compared to European pianos, which may have a brighter sound. However, every piano can be voiced to suit either preference, so the choice ultimately depends on personal taste and the specific use of the piano.

The More a Piano Is Played, the Brighter It Gets

Pianos tend to become brighter over time with regular use. The felt on the hammers compresses and hardens, leading to a brighter tone. To counteract this, it’s beneficial to start with a piano voiced on the warmer side. This allows for a more controlled and pleasant sound as the piano naturally brightens with use.

Seeking Professional Voicing

Voicing is a specialized skill. It’s essential to work with a skilled technician who can finely adjust the voicing to meet your specific needs. Look for a technician with experience in concert-level work, as they will have the expertise necessary to achieve the best results. Voicing needs to be even from key to key, which is a real challenge to achieve.

Personalized Voicing

Many pianos can be voiced with different tonal characteristics in various sections. For example, you might prefer a warmer middle register with brighter treble and bass notes. This customization can enhance the overall sound and suit your personal preferences. I have a personal story to share about my father, Morton Estrin. He was an incredibly powerful pianist, but he had remarkable control over his pianissimo playing as well. He truly loved exploring the full range of the piano. I remember visiting the Baldwin showroom in New York City with him, where, as a Baldwin artist, he would head to the back room filled with concert grands to test them for his New York recitals and recordings. He always sought out the piano with the warmest tone, knowing it would allow him to express himself fully without the risk of a harsh sound. His preference for a warmer voicing was because it enabled him to produce beautiful, delicate tones and, when played with more power, to reveal a range of rich, varied sounds. To contrast that, Vladimir Horowitz’s piano was known for its exceptional brightness. Horowitz’s control over this brightness was remarkable. His piano had a shallower key depth, allowing him to achieve a wide range of dynamics—from subtle nuances to powerful crescendos—with ease. His technical mastery and the unique characteristics of his piano created a dynamic and fiery performance.

Conclusion

The choice between a warm or bright voicing depends on numerous factors, including the acoustic environment, musical style, player strength, and personal taste. Each option has its benefits, and the ideal voicing will complement your piano’s natural characteristics and your individual needs. If you have any questions about the voicing of your piano, please feel free to share them in the comments here at LivingPianos.com and on YouTube! I’m Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me!

For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel! www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin

Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com

Vintage VS Modern Steinway Concert Grands

Welcome to LivingPianos.com, I’m Robert Estrin. Today we have a fascinating comparison for you. We’ll be comparing a vintage Steinway concert grand to a 2000’s model to highlight the differences between them. Our demonstration will feature two excerpts from Chopin Nocturnes to showcase each instrument’s unique qualities.

Modern Steinway Concert Grand

First, we’ll listen to a 2004 Steinway concert grand, which remains in its original, barely used condition. We’ll hear an excerpt from Chopin’s F-sharp Nocturne. Pay attention to the tonal characteristics and how they resonate with you. Watch the video to hear these two wonderful instruments!

Vintage Steinway Concert Grand

Next, we’ll turn to a 1916 Steinway concert grand, which has been meticulously rebuilt and restored with its original soundboard. We’ll hear an excerpt from Chopin’s B-flat minor Nocturne on this vintage instrument. Listen closely to the tonal differences and see which piano appeals to you more.

The Distinctive Nature of Steinway Pianos

It’s worth noting that every Steinway concert grand is unique. Each piano is hand-built, and there are variations in the woods used—since no two trees are identical—contribute to the distinct sound of each instrument. The individual craftsmanship results in noticeable differences between pianos. There is also a general charactaristic of sound to older compared to newer Steinways. What do you think about these pianos? Do you hear any distinct differences between vintage and modern Steinways? Let us know in the comments here at LivingPianos.com and on YouTube! I’m Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, your online piano store. Thanks for joining me!

For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel at www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin

If you’re interested in private lessons or have any questions, feel free to contact me at Robert@LivingPianos.com. I have many resources available for you!

Top 5 Piano Teaching Myths

Welcome to LivingPianos.com, I’m Robert Estrin. Today I’m going to tell you the top 5 myths about piano teaching.

Myth 1: Great Teachers Don’t Take Beginners

It’s a common belief that top-tier piano teachers only work with advanced students. While it’s true that many high-level instructors at conservatories focus on refining the skills of already proficient players, this doesn’t mean they don’t teach beginners. In fact, teaching beginners can be immensely rewarding and crucial for a student’s development. Many skilled teachers are adept at guiding students from their first notes to advanced techniques. The foundation laid by a dedicated beginner teacher can pave the way for future mastery.

Myth 2: Every Other Week Lessons Are Ineffective

I used to think that having piano lessons every other week could hinder progress due to a lack of consistency. However, my experience teaching online has shown that bi-weekly lessons can be highly effective. Students who are committed and manage their practice well can thrive with this schedule. The key is ensuring that students are motivated and make the most of the time between lessons.

Myth 3: Great Teachers Are Strict

Many parents seek out strict teachers, believing that rigid rules and discipline will lead to better outcomes. While some students may respond well to a strict approach, effective teaching generally involves understanding and communication. It’s important to tailor your approach to each student’s needs and personality. A successful teacher builds a relationship with their student to address any obstacles and support their growth.

Myth 4: Great Teachers Have A Well-Formed Lesson Plan

Another misconception is that exceptional teachers adhere to a fixed lesson plan. While it’s essential for teachers to have a structured approach that includes progressive repertoire, technique, and theory, flexibility is crucial. Each student is unique, and teaching should be adapted to fit their individual needs and goals. A good teacher listens to their students and adjusts their methods accordingly, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all plan.

Myth 5: Students Must Always Follow a Prescribed Path

Finally, the idea that there is a single correct path for all piano students is misleading. Effective teaching involves collaboration between teacher and student. Teachers must be adaptable and responsive, creating a learning experience that aligns with each student’s personal journey. I’m Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me!

For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel! www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin.

Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com.

Did Bach Play the Piano?


Hello, I’m Robert Estrin from LivingPianos.com,Your Online Piano Store. Today, let’s explore an intriguing question: Did Johann Sebastian Bach, one of the greatest composers in history, play the piano?

Bach and the Piano: Historical Context

Johann Sebastian Bach was born in 1685. At that time, the modern piano as we know it did not yet exist. Bach lived in Germany and traveled very little, so he was unlikely to have encountered a piano during his lifetime. Bach didn’t compose any music specifically for the piano. His keyboard compositions were written for clavier (which means, “keyboard”), with the exception of his organ music, which was written for the pipe organ—a fully developed instrument of his era. Bach’s favorite keyboard instrument was the clavichord, known for its expressive capabilities, though it was not suited for public performances due to its quiet sound. Consequently, the harpsichord was the more popular instrument of the time for public concerts, including performances of works like the Brandenburg Concertos and his two-part inventions, as well as countless other works.

Early Pianos and Bach’s Impressions

The fortepiano, an early version of the modern piano, was invented by Bartolomeo Cristofori in Italy. This instrument could play both loud and soft, unlike the harpsichord. At the time Bach encountered a fortepiano built by Gottfried Silbermann, the instrument was still in its early stages of development. Bach had mixed feelings about this early fortepiano, particularly criticizing its upper register. He recognized its potential, but he was not particularly impressed by its sound.

Bach’s Legacy with the Piano

Had Bach experienced a modern piano or even a later model from the 19th century, he would have been thrilled with its expressive capabilities and tonal richness. Despite his limited exposure to the early fortepianos, Bach’s keyboard music continues to be a cornerstone of piano repertoire. His compositions, such as the Italian Concerto, the Two-Part Inventions, the Well Tempered Clavier, the French and English Suites, and the Chromatic Fantasia and Fugue, are played frequently on the piano today. So while Bach did not play the modern piano, he would have undoubtedly appreciated its capabilities if he had. And his music remains a fundamental part of the piano repertoire, demonstrating the timeless appeal and adaptability of his compositions. Thanks again for joining me, Robert Estrin, here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store.

3 German Pianos VS Steinway

Welcome to a special edition of Living Pianos. I’m Robert Estrin, and today, we’re comparing three exceptional German pianos with Steinway. As many of you know, Steinway was founded by German immigrants in New York City and later established a factory in Hamburg. However, most Steinways you encounter in North America are produced in the New York factory, while the Hamburg facility primarily serves Asia and Europe.

A Look at German Excellence

In this video, we’ll explore three top-tier German pianos: Bechstein, Blüthner, and Grotrian-Steinweg. Each of these prestigious brands has a long history, dating back to the 1800s, and is renowned for their superb craftsmanship. I’ll be playing excerpts of Chopin on each of these pianos as well as a Steinway, so you can hear the distinct sounds and qualities of these instruments for yourself.

Bechstein: A Pure Tone

Let’s begin with Bechstein. Listen to the clarity and focus in the beginning of Chopin’s B-flat minor Scherzo. The Bechstein offers a purity of tone that’s truly remarkable.

Blüthner: A Unique Sound

Next, we have the Blüthner. Known for its unique and indescribable sound, the Blüthner will give you a fresh perspective on piano tone. Let’s hear Chopin’s F-sharp Nocturne on this piano and experience the distinct quality of its sound.

Grotrian-Steinweg: A Heritage of Excellence

Grotrian-Steinweg, originally part of the Steinway family, has been crafting exceptional pianos in Germany since the mid-1800s. Listen to a portion of Chopin’s A-flat Ballade on the Grotrian-Steinweg and discover its rich, nuanced sound.

Steinway: The Benchmark

Finally, we’ll compare these German pianos to a Steinway, specifically a model B, which is just under seven feet. Hear Chopin’s Military Polonaise on this Steinway and see how it stands up to the German pianos.

I’d love to hear your impressions of these four instruments. Do you have a favorite? Are there aspects of one piano that you prefer over the others? Do you think some of these pianos are better suited to particular types of music or players? Share your thoughts in the comments!

I am Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me! For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel at www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin. Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com.
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How to Achieve a Singing Sound with the Pedals

Welcome to LivingPianos.com. I’m Robert Estrin, and today I will show you how to achieve a beautiful singing sound using the pedals. This subtle technique can make a significant difference in your piano playing, transforming percussive note transitions into smooth, lyrical lines.

Establishing a Solid Foundation

First, it’s essential to practice with good fingering and without the pedals. This ensures you can connect musical lines with your fingers before relying on the pedals. A solid foundation is crucial for achieving a coherent performance.

Understanding the Sustain Pedal

The sustain pedal, when depressed, creates an echo quality. To avoid a harsh attack, depress the damper pedal slightly after playing the note. This technique enhances sustain without overwhelming the sound. Watch the video to see this technique demonstrated!

Demonstration:

Without Pedal: Play the note without using the pedal.
With Pedal Before Note: Play the note with the pedal already depressed.
With Pedal After Note: Play the note, then depress the pedal after the attack to create a more balanced sound.

Using the Una Corda Pedal

The una corda (soft) pedal shifts the action, making the hammers strike only two strings, resulting in a warmer tone and softer attack. All three strings vibrate sympathetically, enhancing the sustain.

Demonstration:

Without Soft Pedal: Play the note without using the soft pedal.
With Soft Pedal: Engage the soft pedal before playing the note to hear the difference.

Combining Both Techniques

For a richer tonal palette, combine the soft pedal with the sustain pedal. Play the note with the soft pedal engaged and then depress the sustain pedal after the note’s attack.

Demonstration:

No Pedals: Play the note without any pedals.
Soft Pedal Only: Engage the soft pedal before playing the note.
Sustain Pedal After Note: Depress the sustain pedal after the note’s attack.
Both Pedals: Engage the soft pedal before and the sustain pedal after playing the note.

Experiment and Explore

Experiment with these techniques on your grand piano. Upright pianos may not have the same tonal effects, as their left pedal changes the touch rather than the tone. Many digital pianos also model these physical effects, so try them out to see what you can achieve. By using a combination of pedal techniques, you can craft a musical line with a singing quality, enhancing your overall performance.

I am Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me! For premium videos and exclusive content, you can join my Living Pianos Patreon channel! www.Patreon.com/RobertEstrin.

Contact me if you are interested in private lessons. I have many resources for you! Robert@LivingPianos.com.