ANATOMY OF A PIANO
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CABINETRY
Over 80% of an acoustic piano is made of wood, and the cabinet is a significant proportion of this. For most people, the aesthetic appearance of a piano is a very important part of the decision making process. Different woods, cabinetry and outward styling of the piano have to match the décor of a home or room, and it is for this reason that Allans Music carries a large range of pianos with a variety of different cabinetry styles.
A cabinet needs to be strong and durable so most are constructed out of laminated hard woods. Solid wood cases have been extremely rare in the history of the piano because they would not be durable over time.
Historically, most cabinets are constructed of a solid core center with two outer layers of veneer on each side. The modern piano usually has a core made from plywood or compressed wood fibre panels with face veneers applied to each side.
To achieve the high polish lustre look associated with fine grand pianos, many cases are finished with ‘polyurethane’, however, there is still a lot to be admired in a more traditional finish.
Elaborate cabinets can contain carvings and rich styling. They have legs and trim made from wood matched to the same species as the rest of the cabinet. Fine pianos are usually more expensive due to their higher grade of wood and the more time spent on ornamental decorative finishes. |
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