Introduction

A piano is a musical instrument with a manual keyboard actuating hammers that strike wire strings producing sounds that may be softened by means of pedals. The piano is generally used in the western music for solo performances and is among the most regular of musical instruments. The word piano comes from the Italian name pianoforte which means soft. Piano was invented in the year 1700, by one of the Italian named Bartholomew Christopher. Piano is a very problematical instrument with 2500 parts which includes keys, hammers and mechanism.

Ancient Era

In the 19th century it was a tradition that the proud owner of the piano was greeted in a very warm welcome. When the piano was purchased there used to be a procession where the local clergyman would say some prayers and bless the instrument as well as the craftsmen. Also the Mayor would deliver an address and the Schoolmaster, doctor and other dignitaries would give speeches. And in the end when the piano was in its new house all the people would enjoy a banquet and celebrate the occasion. Regrettably these days this tradition does not exist, such purchases are taken for granted.

Three Hundredth Anniversary

As the piano was invented in the year 1700, the year 2000 marks the three hundredth anniversary of pianos invention. On this occasion an exhibition was organized by the national Museum Of American History at the International Gallery, which was open from 9th of March to the 21st of October. PIANO 300 was the name given to that special exhibition of pianos. PIANO 300 explores the piano as a complex machine, a handsome work of decorative art and the vehicle for a infinite variety of human expression reflecting technological, cultural and social changes. One of the earliest pianos invented by Bartholomew Christopher was also there in that exhibition. A stunning square grand piano and a tiny black baby grand piano edged in gold were the favorites in that exhibition. Even the unusual giraffe upright piano also looked interesting among the other pianos. Miniature pianos, T-shirts, assorted books and music were been sold in the gift shop.