Unusual Pianos That Solve Problems

If you love the sound of the ivories being tickled, you probably like any instruments that encourage greater use of the piano. Here are some unusual types of pianos that actually solve problems for their players, making it easier for them to play or even to own a piano.

Portability

For some musicians, a portable electric keyboard just isn't close enough to the real thing. This was the case with Gary Skaggs of San Francisco, who refurbished an old piano and mounted it on a bicycle, so he could ride it around the City by the Bay, providing a new kind of street music.

Small Space

Having a piano, especially a grand piano, takes up a lot of space in any room. People who live in close quarters may feel that a piano simply dwarfs the space too much.

Never fear, several piano makers have come up with clear pianos. Clear furniture, in general, gives the illusion of more spaciousness in a room, and it works for pianos too. A cool benefit is being able to see the piano's inner workings even with the top down.

Extra Notes

If you've ever felt that 88 keys weren't enough, perhaps a Bosendorfer piano is right for you. They make several models with an extra four or nine keys respectively. Users love the rich sound of this maker's instruments, and now they are able to play transcribed versions of some of Bach's organ music, which would be impossible on a standard piano keyboard. Bosendorfer's unusual models have attracted a following, from classical pianist Garrick Ohlsson to jazz legend Keith Jarrett to contemporary artist Tori Amos.

Bedridden

Nowadays, people who are confined to bed have the option of an using an electric keyboard to simulate a piano, but in the 1930s, this wasn't a possibility yet. One lucky British lady in 1935 had a piano converted for her, so the keyboard tipped downward, her legs slid underneath, and she could play while lying in bed. There are folks who would still probably prefer this option to an electronic instrument!

Do you have a problem that needs to be solved by a piano? You never know what a piano maker will be able to do for you. Talk to a custom piano designer, and perhaps you will own the next version of the Bosendorfer to play your favorite composition or a piano that looks like it came from a gallery at the Guggenheim. For more information about unique pianos, contact a music store such as Las Vegas Pianos.