How long is a 88 key piano?

Answer 1

The exact origins of why there were a certain number of keys on a piano are unknown. What we do know from history is that the piano in the US consisted of 88 keys after 1885. The generally accepted number of piano keys is as follows: * 1700-1765 5 Octaves (5 x 12 = 60 keys) * 1765-1794 5 Octaves plus a 4th * 1794-1804 6 Octaves (6 x 12 = 72 keys) * 1804-1824 6 Octaves plus a 4th * 1824-1880 7 Octaves (7 x 12 = 84 keys) * 1880-Present 7 Octaves plus a 4th What we do know is that the piano, with 88 keys, is capable of reproducing the entire multiple octave spectrum of instruments used in an orchestra or band. Interesting to note that the Bosendorfer 9' 6" Concert Grand has 97 keys. The extra keys are at the bottom of the keyboard, extending from low A down to a growling really low C. As far as we know, there is no piano literature written that includes any played notes beyond the lowest A on a standard 88 key piano.

Answer 2

No. Some pianos have less. There are some that are missing some of the very low notes and the very high ones. Also, some pianos are termed "mini pianos" and some only have 5.5 octaves.

Also they keys vary in width, length, and shape. Plus they are a veneer and vary in thickness.

Answer 3

If you're planning on playing Classical Music sheets, it is advisable to have a full size 88key of a keyboard. Most classical music requires you to play the keyboard to its most extent meaning you're going to need the whole 88 keys.

But if you're just playing modern songs a 76 key medium size keyboard will be good enough.

Answer 4

A 61 key piano has three fewer octaves than an 88 key piano. This means that it will not be able to play as wide of a range of music.

Answer 5

It's 5 feet or 6 feet