The Origin of the Word “Piano”
The beloved word “piano” actually has deep Italian roots.
When the grand piano was first invented in 1698 by Bartolomeo Cristofori, a master harpsichord maker, he named his creation:
- “Gravicèmbalo col piano e forte”
(Italian for “harpsichord with loud and soft”)
This reflected the piano’s revolutionary ability to vary volume based on the player’s touch—something the harpsichord could not do.
Over time, this long name was shortened to “pianoforte“ and eventually further simplified to just “piano,” the name we use today.
Popular Nicknames for the Piano
Pianos are so beloved that they’ve earned several affectionate nicknames over the years:
“Tickling the Ivories”
- This playful expression refers to the old piano keys, which were traditionally made from real ivory until the 1950s.
- Today, keys are made from durable plastic, but the phrase remains a popular way to describe playing the piano.
“The Eighty-Eight”
- Pianos typically have 88 keys, comprising 52 white keys and 36 black keys.
- This nickname highlights the instrument’s expansive range and versatility.
“The Black and Whites”
- A simple, visual reference to the piano’s alternating black and white keys symbolizes both the structure and the aesthetic beauty of the instrument.
The Materials That Make Up a Piano
An Instrument Crafted from Wood, Metal, and More
While piano keys are now made of plastic, about 70% of a piano is still constructed from wood.
The cabinet, case, and internal framework are crafted from hundreds of carefully assembled wooden pieces, securely bonded to form the piano’s durable structure.
Other essential materials include:
- Wood:
Used for keys, hammers, cabinets, and soundboard components. - Iron and Steel:
Provide the structural strength needed to withstand the massive string tension (often over 20 tons!). - Copper:
Wound around bass strings to add density and lower pitch. - Felt and Paper:
Used in the hammers and damper systems for controlled, rich sound production.
An Astonishing Number of Parts
A piano is an incredible feat of mechanical engineering:
- It contains approximately 12,000 individual parts.
- Of those, approximately 10,000 parts are moving components that work together seamlessly to produce beautiful music.
Each keystroke you play triggers a series of complex interactions between levers, hammers, dampers, and strings—all within a fraction of a second!
Why Pianos Require Professional Handling During a Move
Given their complex construction, high material value, and sensitive components, moving a piano requires expert care.
At Keyboard Carriers, we specialize in safe piano moving and storage throughout Denver and the surrounding areas.
We understand the rich history and intricate craftsmanship behind every piano, and we are committed to protecting these amazing instruments during every relocation.
Contact Keyboard Carriers for Professional Piano Moving Services
Whether you’re moving a baby grand, upright, or full concert piano, trust the experts with over 30 years of experience.
Protect your investment and your memories with Keyboard Carriers—Denver’s trusted name in piano moving.
👉 Contact Us Today to request a free quote or schedule your piano move!