They say popularity isn’t everything – but when it comes to pianos, it just might be.
Impressive sound, compact body, affordable. What’s not to love about the acclaimed upright piano?
Yet, whilst they are the most common piano found in people’s homes, how much do you really know about an upright piano, and is it the right choice for you?
To be confident you’re not being swayed by the majority vote, let’s take a closer look at this impressive instrument to discover if it’s worthy of all the admiration.
What is an upright piano?
An upright piano has shorter strings and a smaller soundboard when compared to a grand, and is recognisable by the fact that the strings are strung vertically, producing the instrument’s ‘upright’ and compact shape.
How is an upright different to other types of pianos?
Although small, the upright piano is certainly mighty, and can hold its own even when pitched against the formidable grand piano.
The key differences between these two acoustic models come down to strings and size.
As the strings of an upright are vertical, they are shorter and take up less space. In comparison, a grand’s strings are horizontal, which allows them to be longer and gives the piano its imposing stature.
Increasing the length of the strings and the size of the soundboard allows for more musical variation and colour, as notes can resonate for longer and with more depth. Whilst the grand is definitely the larger option, uprights do offer variations in height, with taller models able to house longer strings.
Who is an upright piano good for?
An upright is a good choice for anyone looking for the authentic sound of a real acoustic piano, whilst needing to save space and money.
Although suitable for all players, they are particularly ideal for learners and intermediate players, who won’t necessarily feel the full benefit of the tonal range offered by a grand piano.
Why choose an upright piano?
Three of the main reasons upright pianos prove to be such a popular choice are:
· Cost
Genuine acoustic sounds, great tonal range, good looks, and an even more attractive price tag. The upright piano offers many of the perks of a grand piano, but at a much lower cost.
· Space
If a piano is set to become a permanent feature in your home, you’ll be keen for it to look the part, but you won’t want it to take up too much space.
In the average home, a grand will be too imposing, yet a digital might not offer the ‘real’ piano look you’re envisaging – which makes an upright the perfect compromise. With beautiful craftmanship and ‘classic’ piano style, they are a compact instrument that will tuck neatly up against a wall, saving you precious floor space whilst still looking the part.
· Choice
When it comes to upright pianos, there is a huge range available on the market, with numerous makes, models and sizes to pick from.
You can even seek out additional features, such as a practice pedal to muffle the sound (ideal to avoid disturbing those around you). Or a sostenuto middle pedal (as found on modern grand pianos), which may be favourable for professional players.
Whatever you’re looking for from a piano, we’re confident an upright can deliver it.
Buy an upright piano today
At Richard Lawson Pianos we stock a great range of new and pre-owned upright pianos, from all the leading manufacturers – Yamaha, Kawai, Steinway, Petrof… the list goes on.
Want to try before you buy? No problem. To test out whether an upright is the right piano for your home and playing needs, we offer a competitive piano hire service. This means you can be completely confident in your choice before fully committing to a purchase.
To find out more about upright pianos, details on hiring, or to make a purchase, get in touch with the team.
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