1.
Which antique instrument is not kin to the piano?
Correct Answer
A. Lyre
Explanation
The lyre is not kin to the piano because it is a string instrument that is played by plucking the strings with the fingers or a plectrum, while the piano is a keyboard instrument that produces sound by striking the strings with hammers. The psaltery, monochord, and harpsichord are all string instruments that are more closely related to the piano in terms of their construction and playing technique.
2.
How many keys are found on an average piano?
Correct Answer
B. 88
Explanation
An average piano typically has 88 keys. This is a standard number for most pianos, including both upright and grand pianos. The keys on a piano are used to produce different musical notes, and the 88-key layout allows for a wide range of musical expression and versatility.
3.
What are the black keys on a piano called?
Correct Answer
C. Sharps
Explanation
The black keys on a piano are called sharps. Sharps are the musical notation symbols that indicate a note should be played one semitone higher. On a piano, the black keys are positioned between the white keys and each black key represents a sharp note. Therefore, the correct answer is "Sharps".
4.
After what century did the keys on a piano become arranged in the way they are?
Correct Answer
B. 15th
Explanation
The keys on a piano became arranged in the way they are in the 15th century. This suggests that prior to the 15th century, pianos had a different arrangement of keys.
5.
What are the white keys on a piano commonly made out of?
Correct Answer
C. Ivory
Explanation
The white keys on a piano are commonly made out of ivory. Ivory has been traditionally used for piano keys due to its durability, smooth texture, and ability to produce a rich sound. However, it is important to note that the use of ivory in piano keys has been largely discontinued due to ethical concerns regarding the ivory trade and the protection of endangered species. Nowadays, most piano keys are made out of synthetic materials that replicate the properties of ivory.
6.
What is the right pedal on a piano used for?
Correct Answer
D. To sustain the sound
Explanation
The right pedal on a piano, also known as the sustain pedal, is used to sustain the sound. When the pedal is pressed, it lifts the dampers off the strings, allowing them to vibrate freely and sustain the sound even after the keys are released. This creates a richer and more resonant sound, as the notes blend together and continue to ring out.
7.
What is the left pedal on a piano used for?
Correct Answer
A. To soften the sound
Explanation
The left pedal on a piano is used to soften the sound. When the pedal is pressed, it moves the hammers closer to the strings, resulting in a quieter and more muted tone. This allows the pianist to create a softer and more delicate sound quality, especially useful in passages that require a gentle touch or a more subdued expression.
8.
What kind of pedal is used to sustain only the bass sound played immediately before the pedal is pressed?
Correct Answer
B. Sostenuto pedal
Explanation
The sostenuto pedal is used to sustain only the bass sound played immediately before the pedal is pressed. Unlike the sustain pedal, which sustains all notes played, the sostenuto pedal allows the pianist to selectively sustain certain notes while leaving others unaffected. This pedal is commonly found on grand pianos and is used to create a rich and layered sound by sustaining the bass notes while playing new melodies or chords on top.
9.
How many strings in an average piano?
Correct Answer
C. 230
Explanation
The average piano has 88 keys, with each key corresponding to a string. However, some pianos may have additional strings for resonance or to create a richer sound. On average, a piano may have around 230 strings.
10.
Which is not the name of a piano manufacturer?
Correct Answer
D. Young
Explanation
The names Baldwin, Essex, and Estonia are all well-known piano manufacturers. However, Young is not a recognized name in the piano manufacturing industry.
11.
Which is not a piano part?
Correct Answer
C. Stem
Explanation
The stem is not a piano part. The whippen, hammer, and backcheck are all components of the piano action mechanism. The whippen is responsible for transferring the motion of the key to the hammer, which strikes the strings. The backcheck prevents the hammer from bouncing back after striking the strings. However, the stem is not a part of the piano mechanism.