The Alexander: Why did you build such a long piano? (alexanderpiano.nz)

Article summary

The article tells the story of Adrian Mann, who built the longest piano in the world, known as the Alexander Piano. Mann's motivation was to create a piano with a longer bass string, which he believed would produce a better sound. He experimented with different string lengths and eventually built the piano, which has a unique sound due to its long bass strings. The piano has been used in various concerts and recordings, showcasing its distinct sound.

Main themes

• piano design
• acoustics
• inharmonicity
• music theory
• piano tuning
• virtual instruments
• unconventional pianos

What commenters say

• The Alexander Piano's long bass strings reduce inharmonicity, resulting in a cleaner and more distinct sound.
• The piano's unique sound is due to the reduced stiffness of the strings, allowing for a more accurate harmonic series.
• Some commenters prefer the sound of the Alexander Piano, while others find it unusual or unappealing.
• The use of longer strings in the Alexander Piano reduces the need for compromise in tuning, allowing for a more accurate harmonic series.
• Pianoteq, a virtual piano modeling software, can simulate the sound of the Alexander Piano and other unconventional pianos.
• The Alexander Piano's sound is not just a result of its long strings, but also of its unique design and construction.
• The reduction of inharmonicity in the Alexander Piano makes its low notes sound more like a single tone, rather than a 'rumbly mess'.
• The Alexander Piano's sound is a result of the physical properties of its strings and soundboard, which can be modeled and simulated using software.