Electronic Keyboards

The term keyboard can refer to a specific instrument, also called a synthesizer, or to a part of many different instruments. Keyboards function as methods of producing notes, whether through vibrations or electronic means.

Synthesizers or Electronic Keyboards

The ability to reproduce sounds electronically has long been a subject of study and experiment. In the sixties and seventies, synthesizers were used in popular music for their unique sounds. Later, in the late 1980s, keyboards were developed to mimic actual instruments. Keyboardists have become so good at achieving this effect that sometimes even conductors cannot tell the difference.

Synthesizers work in a variety of ways. The basic method is to analyze the sound, tones, and volume of instruments or noises and figure out how to recreate the sound waves and frequencies. This is then translated into an electrical signal that is broadcast through speakers. Keyboards are a natural way to utilize this technology, as they have a basic set-up that is easily understood. Most musical instruments have notes and tones, and keyboards recreate them. They are programmed with a variety of different instruments or sounds. A musician need only hit keys on a keyboard to reproduce the sound of a trumpet, a bassoon, a drum, or even a human scream.

Music