1. A modern keyboard instrument that produces sounds by hammers striking strings. These hammers are activated by keys, depressed by the performer's fingers. The piano is equipped with a pedal that controls the dampers which stop the vibration of the strings. When the pedal is pressed by the performer's foot, the dampers are lifted from the strings, and the strings are allowed to vibrate freely. Another pedal softens the volume of the piano. The piano is an extremely popular instrument in Classical, Romantic, Post-Romantic, Modern, Jazz, Pop, Rock, and Folk music.

   Also Baby Grand Piano, Grand Piano, Upright Piano.

2. Dynamic marking meaning quiet. A directive to a musician to perform a certain passage softly (abbreviated p).

	Upright Piano Photo courtesy of Steinway & Sons
	Baby Grand Piano Photo courtesy of Steinway & Sons
	Grand Piano (Concert Grand Piano) Photo courtesy of Steinway & Sons

SUGGESTED LISTENING EXAMPLES:

Chopin: Prelude in E minor, Op. 28, No. 4

W. W. Norton - 4-CD Musical Example Bank -- Disc 1, Track 16

Beethoven: Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13 (Pathétique), I

W. W. Norton - 4-CD Musical Example Bank -- Disc 1, Track 34

Strauss: Burleske in D minor for Piano and Orchestra

W. W. Norton - 4-CD Musical Example Bank -- Disc 2, Track 14

Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor, Op. 23, III

W. W. Norton - 4-CD Musical Example Bank -- Disc 2, Track 24