Prepared piano

Definition

A prepared piano is a standard piano that has been altered by placing various objects, such as screws, rubber, or paper, on or between the strings to create unique and unconventional sounds. This technique expands the traditional range of the piano, transforming it into a versatile instrument capable of producing percussive and resonant tones that differ from its typical tonal qualities. The concept connects deeply to organology, as it challenges conventional classifications of musical instruments by blurring the lines between categories such as percussion and keyboard instruments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. John Cage is credited with inventing the prepared piano in the 1940s, originally intended for his composition 'Sonatas and Interludes.'
2. The preparation of the piano allows for a wide range of timbres, making it suitable for various genres, including avant-garde and experimental music.
3. Objects used for preparation can include anything from cloth and wood to metal objects, each affecting the sound in different ways.
4. Prepared piano performances often require specialized techniques from the performer to effectively produce desired sounds.
5. The prepared piano has influenced many contemporary composers and performers, expanding the possibilities for piano music and pushing the boundaries of instrumental classification.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of prepared piano challenge traditional classifications of musical instruments?
  • The prepared piano challenges traditional classifications by altering a keyboard instrument into something that produces percussive sounds similar to those of percussion instruments. This blending of characteristics encourages rethinking how instruments are categorized, highlighting the fluidity between different types of sound production. By modifying a standard piano with various objects, it transforms its identity and function, which can complicate how we define instruments within organology.
• Discuss the impact of John Cage's prepared piano on contemporary music and its relevance in modern compositions.
  • John Cage's introduction of the prepared piano has had a profound impact on contemporary music by opening up new sonic possibilities and encouraging experimentation. Composers began to explore unconventional sound production methods, leading to innovative techniques across various genres. The relevance of prepared piano in modern compositions can be seen in its use in avant-garde music, film scores, and even popular genres where unique sound textures are desired.
• Evaluate how prepared piano techniques reflect broader trends in instrument innovation and classification systems in ethnomusicology.
  • Prepared piano techniques reflect broader trends in instrument innovation by showcasing how musicians can redefine existing instruments to create new musical expressions. This practice emphasizes the evolving nature of instrument classification systems within ethnomusicology, as artists challenge established norms and explore hybrid forms. The prepared piano serves as an example of how cultural practices influence instrument design and use, ultimately leading to a richer understanding of musical diversity and creativity.

Related terms

John Cage: An influential American composer known for his experimental music, including the development and popularization of prepared piano techniques.

Timbre: The quality or color of a musical sound that distinguishes it from other sounds, which is significantly affected when using a prepared piano.

Instrumentation: The arrangement and selection of instruments used in a musical composition, which can include prepared pianos as an innovative choice.