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Piano

Keyboard instruments

The keyboard section of an orchestra includes the piano, organ, harpsichord and celeste.

All keyboard instruments are played by pressing down fingers on keys which make different sounds.

In a piano, each key is attached to a tiny hammer which strikes the strings inside the belly to make a sound. A harpsichord makes its sound by plucking. The organ mechanically blows air down a metal tube, a bit like a flute.

A celeste has a series of metal bars inside. When they’re struck by tiny hammers, they make a beautiful sound like little bells ringing.

The keyboard section can also include a synthesizer which produces weird and wonderful sound effects.

Percussion

More Percussion instruments
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