In our article Grand Piano vs. Baby Grand Piano, we discussed what are the differences between baby grand and grand pianos. Here, we will focus on how big a baby grand piano is and the best way to fit it in a room.
As we know there are two basic piano categories: horizontal and vertical. Vertical pianos generally refer to upright pianos, while horizontal versions are grand pianos including baby grands.
Table of Contents
What is Baby Grand Piano?
A baby grand piano is a type of horizontal piano that is smaller than a full-size grand piano but larger than an upright piano. It is called a baby grand because it is smaller than a grand piano but still has a grand piano’s curved sides and tail.
Baby grand pianos are often used in homes, schools, churches, and concert halls. They are popular among musicians of all levels, from beginners to professionals, and are often chosen for their aesthetic appeal as well as their musical capabilities.
The term “baby grand” can be misleading, as the instrument is still relatively large and can take up a significant amount of space in a room. The baby grand piano is also known as a living room grand piano, which is perfect for homes.
The construction of a baby grand piano is similar to that of a grand piano, with a cast iron plate that supports the strings, a soundboard, and a keyboard with 88 keys. The strings are longer than those of an upright piano, which allows the baby grand piano to produce a richer and more resonant sound.
Baby grand pianos can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and composite materials, and can come in a range of finishes to suit different décor styles.
How to Measure Grand Piano?
Measuring a grand piano is an important step in selecting and purchasing the right piano for your space. Here are the steps to measure a grand piano:
- The length of the piano: Start at the front of the keyboard and measure to the farthest point of the piano’s tail. This will give you the overall length of the piano. Be sure to measure straight across the piano, not along the curve.
- The width of the piano: The front of a grand piano is the widest part. Measure straight across the front of the piano’s body. This will give you the overall width of the piano.
- The height of the piano: Measure from the floor to the top of the lid when it’s closed. Be sure to measure from the highest point of the lid, which is typically the center.
- The height with the lid fully open: Open the lid to the highest position. Measure the distance from the floor to the tallest point of the lid.
- The width of the tail: On the straight side of the piano, find the point where the curve starts, and measure straight across the tail to the curvy side. This will give you the tail width.
Taking these measurements accurately will ensure that you select the right piano for your space and needs.
Baby Grand Piano Dimensions
Baby grand pianos typically range in length from 4 feet 10 inches to 6 feet, with a width of around 5 feet and a height of 3.5 to 4 feet. These dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and model. Despite its smaller size, a baby grand piano can produce a rich and full-bodied sound similar to that of a full-sized grand piano, making it a popular choice for musicians who want a high-quality instrument that doesn’t take up as much space.
Weight
The weight of a baby grand piano varies depending on its size, make, and materials. Generally, it can weigh anywhere from 400 pounds (181 kg) to 800 pounds (363 kg).
Here are some examples of the approximate weight of baby grand pianos based on their length:
- 4’7″ (140 cm): 400-500 pounds (181-227 kg)
- 5’1″ (155 cm): 500-600 pounds (227-272 kg)
- 5’3″ (160 cm): 600-700 pounds (272-318 kg)
- 5’8″ (173 cm): 700-800 pounds (318-363 kg)
It’s important to note that the weight of a baby grand piano can make it difficult to move, so it’s best to hire professional piano movers when transporting or relocating the instrument.
Additionally, when considering the weight of a baby grand piano, it’s important to ensure that the floor of the room or space, where the piano will be, can support the weight of the instrument.
How to Fit a Baby Grand Piano in a Room
Fitting a baby grand piano in a room requires careful planning and consideration of the piano’s dimensions, as well as the size and layout of the room. Below are some tips to help you fit a baby grand piano in a room.
Room Size
Measure the dimensions of the room where you plan to place the baby grand. Make sure to take into account the placement of doors, windows, and other furniture that may be in the room.
Piano Size
Use the aforementioned guidelines to measure the dimensions of the baby grand piano, including the length, width, and height. This will give you an idea of the space required for the piano.
Floor Plan
Create a floor plan of the room and draw the dimensions of the piano to scale. This will help you visualize how the piano will fit in the room and allow you to experiment with different placement options.
Decide on the best orientation for the piano based on the shape and size of the room. For example, if the room is long and narrow, it may be best to place the piano lengthwise along one of the walls. If the room is more square-shaped, the piano may be placed diagonally for better acoustics and visual appeal.
A baby grand piano requires space on all sides to allow for proper sound projection and maintenance. Make sure there are at least three feet of clearance around the piano on all sides, and avoid placing the piano too close to walls, windows, or other objects that may interfere with the sound quality.
Flooring
The flooring of the room where the piano will be should be able to support the weight of the piano. Hardwood floors are often preferred as they provide better acoustics than carpeted floors.
By following these tips, you can create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, while allowing for the best possible sound quality from your baby grand piano. If you are unsure about how to fit a baby grand piano in a room, seek the advice of a professional piano technician or designer. They can provide valuable insight and help you make informed decisions about placement and orientation.
My Top Picks: Best Baby Grand Pianos
There are many baby grand models on the market. Here are the three best baby grand pianos available in the market based on their features and popularity.
| Image | Model | Details |
|---|---|---|
 |
Kawai GL10 Baby Grand Piano (Best Overall) |
The Kawai GL10 is a premium baby grand piano known for its clarity, precision, and expressive tone. It has a responsive touch and is made with high-quality materials, making it a long-lasting investment for serious pianists. |
 |
Yamaha GB1K Baby Grand Piano (Most Popular) |
It is a popular choice for those looking for a high-quality baby grand piano. It has a full-sized keyboard and a rich sound, despite its compact size. The Yamaha brand is known for its durability, reliability, and longevity. |
 |
Steinway Model S Baby Grand Piano (Best Sound) |
Steinway pianos are known for their rich and powerful sound, and the Model S is no exception. It is a compact grand piano that has a responsive touch, a warm tone, and a beautiful design. However, it is also the most expensive of the three options, and not everyone will have the budget for it. |
Summary
In conclusion, a baby grand piano is a type of piano that is smaller than a full-size grand piano but larger than an upright piano. It has a grand piano’s curved sides and tail and can produce a rich and full-bodied sound similar to that of a full-sized grand piano.
Baby grand pianos are popular among musicians of all levels. People often choose them for their aesthetic appeal as well as their musical capabilities.
Fitting a baby grand piano in a room requires a well-thought-out plan and inspection of the piano’s dimensions, as well as the size and layout of the room.
Baby grand pianos are elegant and offer timeless beauty. They can add a touch of sophistication to any room.
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