ABSTRACT
The Fluid Piano, invented by Geoffrey Smith, incorporates microtonal ‘Fluid Tuning’ mechanisms that enable each note on the instrument to be tuned individually by precise microtonal intervals either before or during performance. It thus frees the piano from its usual associations with the tempered scales of the Western classical music tradition and offers the opportunity to engage with the scales, modes, and tuning systems of music cultures around the world. Bespoke tuning systems are also possible. The instrument was developed between 1997 and 2009. Having the Fluid Dulcimer and the one-note Fluid Piano prototype for reference proved to be invaluable in the construction of the complete Fluid Piano prototype. Also, for a full Fluid Piano to function effectively, it became clear that each Fluid Tuning mechanism needed to be adjustable so that the downward bearing pressure of each mechanism could be regulated by musicians.
