The Industial Revolutions Affect on the Piano
The industrial compromises a set of dramatic changes to society, in both Europe and the United
States beginning in the 1750's, with the advent of better farming approaches and technologies. The Green
Revolution changed agriculture so fundamentally that the farm no longer needed countless workers; the
tractor and other machines replaced human labor. A newly supplanted workforce migrated to cities where
new technology also revolution every kind of industry imaginable.
The industrial revolution is important to history of the piano for many reasons. First, and most,
obviously, improved metal technology allowed the tension of the piano to increases dramatically
in the 19th century, add depth and carrying power to the piano. Babcock's 1925 iron frame and the
Steinway and the B–sendorfer frames to follow are a direct result of better iron and steel technology.
Second, the industrial revolution also greatly reduced the price of pianos in Europe and America, making
it possible for a now growing middle class to own an instrument formerly reserved for the rich. The demand
for upright pianos grew at an astounding rate during the 19th century. It wasn't until Thomas Edison's
invention of the phonograph that piano's began to decline in popularity and sales.
Recommended Readings on the Industrial Revolution