RAG MusicPiano
A web magazine to help you enjoy the piano even more

[List] Types of Keyboard Instruments [Piano, Synth, etc.]

When you think, “Let’s try playing a musical instrument,” what kind of instrument comes to mind? For most people, the very first image that pops up is probably the piano.

Even if you’ve never played a piece, chances are you’ve touched a piano at least once in your life.

Now, the piano is a type of keyboard instrument.

And there are actually many different kinds of keyboard instruments! In this article, I’d like to introduce a variety of them.

You might even discover a keyboard instrument that makes you say, “Wait, I’ve never seen this before!”

[List] Types of Keyboard Instruments Summary [Piano, Synth, etc.] (11–20)

Ondes Martenot

What does the electronic instrument ‘ondes Martenot’ sound like? A ‘heavenly resonance’
Ondes Martenot

This instrument was developed in 1928, but I imagine many of you are seeing it for the first time.

Structurally, it’s like a Theremin with a keyboard and can only produce monophonic tones.

There are two ways to play it: the ribbon technique, which doesn’t use the keys, and the conventional method of pressing the keys.

Its sound is strange and ethereal—almost heavenly, isn’t it? There are four types of speakers, and I’ve heard one of them even includes a gong.

It’s a fascinating instrument that feels both analog and digital at the same time.

If you get the chance, be sure to check it out.

In conclusion

Some of you may have been surprised to find there were more than you expected. Basically, many of them are keyboard instruments like the piano, but each has a completely different timbre! Some are quite rare and hard to get hands-on experience with. But if you ever get the chance, be sure to find out what they sound like with your own ears and fingertips!