The most commonly used wood for black piano keys is ebony, a dense, heavy tropical hardwood. Other woods commonly used for black piano keys include boxwood, rosewood, and stained maple. Ebony is the preferred wood because of its strength, hardness, and durability, and its black color which makes it easy to match and contrast with the white keys.
Rosewood, walnut, and cherry are also occasionally used for black piano keys.
When a piano is manufactured, the ebony or other wood chosen for the black keys is carefully debarked and the surface is slowly rounded for a smooth finish so that the keys feel comfortable against the skin of a player’s fingers.
After drying in a climate-controlled environment, the keys are carefully shaped, measured, and sanded until they achieve their final shape. They are then polished with a hard wax to give them a smooth and glossy finish.
Lastly, the black keys may have an inlaid logo, a serial number, or other markings that are consistent with the brand or type of piano.
Are black keys made of ebony?
No, black keys on a piano are usually not made of ebony. Traditionally, black keys on a piano were made of a material called “ivory,” which is a type of hard, off-white material created from the tusks and teeth of different animals.
Over time ivory became an expensive and difficult material to obtain, so many piano manufacturers used a substitute material called “plastic” for the black keys of their pianos. While some modern pianos still utilize ivory for the black keys, many now use a fairly hard fabricated type of plastic so that a similar texture and durability to ivory can be obtained.
Ebony is another hard wood used in the construction of string instruments and woodwinds, however, it is not commonly (or traditionally) used in the construction of piano keyboards.
What are expensive piano keys made from?
Expensive piano keys are typically made from either acrylic or composite materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, polyester, and phenolic composites. These materials are incredibly durable, and can withstand heavy use.
Additionally, the materials used for expensive piano keys retain their shape even after years of play. Acrylic is one of the most popular materials for expensive piano keys, as it is an attractive material that has a long-lasting finish.
Acrylic keys also tend to be quieter than wooden keys, leading to an overall quieter sound. Other materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, polyester, and phenolic composites are also used for expensive piano keys, as they impart a more precise and accurate touch than the traditional wooden keys.
These materials are also more expensive than traditional wooden keys but they last longer and offer more consistent action.
Are old piano keys worth anything?
The answer to the question of whether old piano keys are worth anything depends on a few factors. It depends on the age and condition of the keys, as well as the type of piano they came from. Generally, the older and more rare the piano, the more valuable the keys may be.
Similarly, keys that are in better condition are likely to have more value than ones that have experienced more wear and tear.
For some people, old piano keys have significant sentimental value and can be worth much more than their monetary value. For instance, a set of keys from a beloved old family piano may be more valuable as a memorabilia than a cold cash value.
Ultimately, if you are looking to find out how much your old piano keys are worth, it is best to contact a local specialist that deals in antique pianos and keys. They can look at your keys and assess their value to help you get a better idea of what you could potentially get for them.
Is it illegal to own a piano with ivory keys?
In most countries, the possession of an ivory-keyed piano is illegal. The import and sale of antique ivory pianos is generally prohibited or restricted in some form or another. This is due to laws that were created to protect endangered species, such as elephants and rhinos, which are among the primary sources of ivory.
The United States, for example, imposed a virtually total ban on ivory importation in 1989 with the passage of the African Elephant Conservation Act. In light of the illegal status of ivory possession, the chances of legally owning an ivory-keyed piano are very slim.
Nevertheless, there are some countries that do allow people to own ivory-keyed pianos. In the United Kingdom, for example, individuals are permitted to own and use ivory-keyed pianos as long as they prove that the piano is of historical significance and was made before 1947.
In addition, people in France, Italy and Germany may also be able to acquire a pre-1947 ivory-keyed piano if they have the proper paperwork proving its authenticity.
Ultimately, it is important to keep in mind that laws surrounding ivory-keyed pianos are constantly changing and it is important to research the rules in your country before attempting to acquire one.
Even when it is legal to possess an antique ivory-keyed piano, it is still illegal to trade or buy an ivory-keyed piano as part of the commercial market.
What material is used for piano keys?
Piano keys are typically made from a combination of materials, including spruce or basswood for the sides, plastic or ivory for the top, and felted wool for the key bushing. For many instruments, the surface of a key is made of a hard material like plastic or metal, but piano keys are a bit different – the surface of the keys is typically covered with a thin coat of ivory or plastic.
The ivory is usually made from elephant tusks, while plastic is the preferred material today due to the difficulty in obtaining ivory. The mechanical components of the key are made from metal, usually a combination of brass, steel, and iron, depending on the type.
Are my piano keys ivory or plastic?
The answer to whether your piano keys are ivory or plastic depends on the era in which your piano was made. Most pianos made before the 1950s used ivory keys, while those made after that era typically use plastic.
However, there are exceptions to this rule and some pianos manufactured in the modern era may still have ivory keys. Additionally, some pianos manufactured post-1950s have keys that are a combination of both ivory and plastic.
To determine for sure what your piano keys are made of, you will need to examine them closely or have a qualified piano technician inspect them.
Are piano keys made out of elephant tusks?
No, piano keys are not made out of elephant tusks. Historically, piano keys were originally made out of ivory, which is the tusk of certain animals such as elephants. However, ivory is no longer used to make piano keys due to ethical and legal considerations.
Companies creating pianos and other musical instruments are required to use an alternative material. Today, many piano keys are made out of plastic or a hardened type of plastic. Other materials that may be used include ebony or a combination of plastic and wood.
When did they stop using ivory for piano keys?
The use of ivory for piano keys started to decline in the late 1800s and the early 1900s due to increasing concerns around the ethical implications of using ivory in piano production. In 1973, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was signed which imposed a ban on all trade of African elephant ivory.
This impacted the availability of ivory for piano production and meant that other materials such as plastic or synthetic ivory had to be used for the production of piano keys. By the 1980s and 1990s, the use of ivory in piano production was largely phased out.
Does real ivory turn yellow?
Yes, real ivory can turn yellow. The process is called “ivory yellowing. ” It is caused by a combination of exposure to ultraviolet rays and bleaching, as well as a reaction between the proteins and the tannins in the ivory.
Over time, the outer surface of the ivory can become yellow or brown, with a golden tint, or a yellowish-gray, depending on several factors. This discoloration can be accelerated by UV light, oils (especially those based on animal fats), and solvents like alcohol.
To prevent yellowing, it is best to keep ivory out of direct sunlight and away from strong heat sources. It should also be stored in a place where dust, moisture, and airborne pollutants like smoke and car exhaust will not be able to reach it.
Regular cleaning with only warm, soapy water can also help keep ivory looking brighter and newer for longer.
How can you tell ivory from plastic keys?
When trying to tell ivory from plastic keys, it’s important to look closely at the material’s color and texture. Ivory keys generally have a more ivory or yellowish-white color, while plastic keys usually have a white, cream, or off-white color.
In addition, ivory is porous, so the surface may have a slightly gritty, grainy texture when touched. Plastic keys tend to be smooth, glossy, and dull. Ivory ivory keys may also have grain lines running through them.
However, the surface of plastic keys may still have grain lines if they are designed to mimic the look of real ivory. To ensure an accurate conclusion, consider consulting a professional to help you determine of the material is ivory or plastic.
How do you tell if something is ivory or plastic?
First, ivory is a naturally occurring hard material, usually originating from the teeth or tusks of animals such as elephants, walruses, and hippopotamuses. Plastic on the other hand is a man-made material produced from synthetic materials like polyethylene and polyurethane.
By visual inspection, ivory will be warm toned while plastic will be cool toned. Ivory will have varying degrees of yellow and brown tones, while plastic will be more uniform in color and not have any imperfections or defects.
Additionally, ivory has a unique texture which is smooth, slightly dry, and has a natural pattern which can be seen with the naked eye. Plastic on the other hand has a more polished appearance, as well as a more uniform texture.
When it comes to testing for ivory versus plastic, a sharp object like a pin or needle can be used to test the surface of the material. Ivory will splinter in a jagged manner, while plastic will break easily and in more of a smooth, uniform pattern.
Finally, ivory will often have small imperfections, inclusions, and tiny holes, which are a sure way to tell that it is indeed ivory.
How can you tell if keys are real ivory?
There are various ways to tell if keys are real ivory:
1. Look closely at the exterior of the key and identify the types of color and grain patterns indicative of ivory. Genuine ivory tends to be a yellowish to pinkish or slightly brownish color, and the natural grain markings may swirl or have a directional pattern.
Additionally, ivory can sometimes have a slight sheen to it.
2. Examine the key closely and see if it has any deep nicks, dents, and scratches. Natural ivory is a hard yet slightly soft material and, as such, easily forms these markings. However, faux ivory is usually made of synthetics, and as such will usually not have this appearance.
3. Look at the key closely and see if it has any irregularities. Real ivory keys will often have slight variations in the uniform color of the material, while fake ivory items have a much more uniform color.
4. Place a hot needle close to the key and observe the reaction. Upon contact with the needle, real ivory will often release a burring smell, whereas fake ivory items will not.
5. If you are still unsure whether the key is real ivory or not, take it to a knowledgeable antiques dealer or appraiser for further inspection. They will be able to provide a more definitive answer about the keys authenticity.
When did Baldwin stop using ivory?
In December of 2019, Baldwin announced that it was ceasing their use of ivory in the manufacturing of their piano keys. This decision was made in response to the concerns of animal welfare activists and those involved in preserving endangered species.
Their decision to phase out the use of ivory was a progressive step for the company, ahead of the industry norm. As of January 2020, Baldwin became the first major piano maker to adopt a no-ivory policy and are now in the pursuit of delivering a full-line of pianos with alternative materials.
This decision was made in an effort to remain a leader in responsible instrument manufacturing and to reduce any potential harm to animals and their habitats.
How much does it cost to replace ivory keys on a piano?
The cost of replacing ivory keys on a piano can vary greatly depending on the piano and the condition of the keys. Generally, the cost of replacement can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, so it is important to get a detailed quote that takes into account the work required and the cost of any replacement parts needed.
If the piano is a vintage or antique instrument, the cost of repair may be significantly higher due to the difficulty of finding the required parts. In some situations, it may be more cost effective to find a replacement keyboard rather than paying for the replacement of individual keys.
Additionally, if the piano is in need of further repair, such as to the soundboard or action, for example, the overall cost of the repair can be more expensive.