Differences Between Piano, Organ, and Keyboard

The Piano

• Mechanism and Sound: The piano is an acoustic instrument with taut strings that are struck by felt-covered hammers when keys are pressed, producing a rich, resonant sound. The volume depends on how hard the keys are pressed.
• Keyboard: It has 88 keys, and the keys are weighted, meaning they provide resistance to touch, simulating the feel of pressing a hammer against a string.
• Types of Piano:
  • Grand piano (concert piano)
  • Upright piano (wall piano)
• Usage: Commonly used in classical music, jazz, and pop. Pianos are frequently used in concerts due to their powerful, natural sound.

The Organ

• Mechanism and Sound: Traditional pipe organs use air flowing through pipes of varying sizes to produce sound. In electronic organs, sound is generated electronically but mimics the sound of a pipe organ. Organs have multiple keyboards ("manuals") and a pedalboard played with the feet.
• Keyboard: The keys are usually lighter and unweighted. The volume and tone are often controlled by other devices, such as stops or expression pedals, rather than the force of key presses.
• Types of Organs:
  • Church organs
  • Theater organs
  • Electronic organs
• Usage: Primarily used in religious music, Baroque music, theater music, and occasionally in rock and jazz.

The Keyboard (Electronic)

• Mechanism and Sound: An electronic keyboard generates sound digitally and can imitate a wide variety of instruments, including piano, organ, strings, wind instruments, and more. Sound quality depends on the soundbanks and built-in amplification systems.
• Keyboard: Keys may be fully weighted (simulating a piano feel), semi-weighted, or completely light. Some keyboards have fewer than 88 keys and are portable.
• Additional Features: Modern keyboards often include advanced features such as auto-accompaniment, sequencers, sound effects, MIDI connectivity, and the ability to record and play music.
• Usage: Used across various musical genres, such as pop, rock, electronic music, and music production.

Summary of Key Differences

• Piano: Acoustic, with strings and hammers; weighted keys; natural sound.
• Organ: Acoustic or electronic; multiple keyboards; sound generated by pipes or electronically; light keys.
• Keyboard: Electronic; digital sound; imitates various instruments; keys may be weighted or light; more versatile and portable.