Historically only the rich and royal were able to own them. Small pianos today sometimes may actually have these same attributes, as technical improvements have been made over the decades, but six feet is still the accepted rule of thumb for a “professional” instrument.Īs society evolved, a middle class with some disposable income emerged.

An acoustic piano is usually considered “professional” when it is at least 6’long. Trained pianists who play in public have needs for music to attain certain resonances, tones and qualities – in order to satisfy and reach their audiences. History likes to hold onto monikers, and this one has managed to survive through the centuries, although not widely used anymore. But the slightly smaller origins of the withdrawing room dictated the size of this grand at about 6’4” In those days, it would have been harpsichords, frontrunner of the pianoforte.

It gradually became shortened to drawing room, another word for living room. The drawing room is an even older version of a parlor, referring back to 16th century parlance for a room where one could “withdraw” for more privacy.

This sized grand is about 6’8” and the name still is used in some stores. These instruments can run from 7’4” up to 8’10” and would be good for medium sized churches and halls where the pianist doesn’t have to reach the upper balcony.Īn acoustic piano that was popular all through the early 1900’s in America was considered a “parlor grand” and that’s because the largest room in the house was called the parlor. The longest to date is 10’ 2”.Ī slightly smaller version of the concert grand is made to accommodate those smaller venues that might not require as much sound. The concert grand, normally made for and used by professional concert halls and artists, is 8’11” and longer. Let’s start with the granddaddy of the industry.

La petite by kimball baby grand piano