Which of these instruments has strings but is not considered a traditional stringed instrument?
xylophone
piano
bass drum
viola
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is the piano.
While the piano is classified as a stringed instrument due to its internal strings that are struck by hammers when keys are pressed, it is not considered a traditional string instrument like the viola, which is played by bowing or plucking the strings. The xylophone and bass drum do not have strings at all, making them irrelevant to the question.
The piano belongs to the family of keyboard instruments and combines aspects of both string and percussion instruments. The strings in a piano are typically made of steel and are stretched across a wooden frame. When a key is pressed, it activates a mechanism that causes a felt-covered hammer to strike the corresponding strings, producing sound. This unique mechanism distinguishes the piano from traditional string instruments, where the primary method of sound production involves vibrating strings directly through bowing or plucking.
Moreover, the piano’s design and usage in music further set it apart from traditional string instruments. While violas and other stringed instruments are often played in ensembles, orchestras, or chamber music settings, the piano has a broader range of applications, including solo performances, accompaniment, and as a harmonic foundation in various music genres. Its versatility has made it a staple in classical, jazz, and contemporary music.
In summary, while the piano has strings and produces sound through them, its classification as a keyboard instrument and its distinct playing technique differentiate it from traditional stringed instruments like the viola. This unique blend of characteristics is what makes the piano both a string and a percussion instrument, highlighting its special role in the world of music.