High resolution radiation pattern measurements of a grand piano - The effect of attack velocity

Abstract

The sound radiation pattern of a grand piano is highly complex and depends on the shape of the soundboard, construction of the frame, reflections from the lid and other parts of the instrument's structure. The spectral energy generated by and emitted from the instrument is further complicated by the sound production mechanism (hammers, strings), the attack velocity, and results in independently complex behaviors depending on the register of the piano. This paper presents the acoustic measurements of the radiation pattern of a grand piano using a high spatial resolution measurement technique. Measurements of a Yamaha Diskclavier were taken using a 32-channel microphone array with a 2-inch spacing between capsules. The complex radiation patterns and overtone structure is analyzed for middle-C at three attack velocities - pianissimo, mezzo forte, and forte. Comparisons of the effect of attack strength on frequency response and radiation pattern are presented.