The piano, also called pianoforte, is one of the most complex, versatile and important of musical instruments. It has the widest range of notes of any instrument, with 88 keys, spanning more than seven octaves, from lower than the lowest note that can be produced by a double-bassoon to the highest note that can played on a piccolo. Moreover, it has a very wide dynamic range and can produce a full range of harmonies imitating those of a full orchestra. Its flexibility is further enhanced by the inclusion of at least two foot pedals. This great range and versatility makes it by far the best of any instrument for solo performances, although it is equally well suited for performances together with other instruments, including full orchestras. It may also be the best instrument for teaching students to read music and for helping composers to develop and refine their musical ideas.
Pressing a key causes a padded hammer to strike several of the 230 stretched wires. The hammer rebounds from the wires, which continue to vibrate at their resonant frequency. These vibrations are transmitted through a bridge to a soundboard that amplifies the sound. When the key is released, a damper stops the wires' vibration. In contrast to the pipe organ and harpsichord, which were already in widespread use before the piano was invented (around 1700), the piano allows the volume to be controlled according to how forcefully the keys are pressed. Moreover, notes can be sustained through the use of a pedal, thereby enabling the playing of passages that would not otherwise be possible. A second pedal can be used to soften the sound.