Recording pianoforte

[F_cksia]

(I hope I use the right word for what I mean; I mean with pianoforte the large pianos looking like a wing (wing (although translated) is the Dutch word for it)).

Anyhow, I have to record one. Which microphones should I use and how do I have to place it? I can rend every mic necessary, so please give me some advise on brands etc. Please be specific about dynamic or not etc., mic's are my weak point.

The pianoforte I have to record is the one of the largest versions that exist.

Thanks!

 

[vox]

I think 'Pianoforte' is the original and correct name for all pianos regardless of shape, the word 'piano' is simply a shortened version.

The large wing shaped pianos are generally called 'Grand Pianos'
The smaller ones of the same shape are 'Baby Grand'
and the vertical rectangular ones are called 'Upright Pianos'

check here for info

http://www.saecollege.de/reference_material/titles/Stringed Instruments.htm

http://www.saecollege.de/reference_material/index.html

 

[DigitMus]

I have a 7' grand piano in my studio & have been experimenting with various recording set ups. My results so far : For classical or acoustic jazz a pair of small diaphragm omnis about 4 feet apart, 6 feet from the open side of the piano sounds most natural. - For more agressive (rock, electric blues, etc.) styles a pair of small diaphragm cardioid or hyper cardioids in near coincident pair about 60ª apart just above the open edge of the stringcase pointing slightly downward gives me the best clarity, punch and balance without too much hammer noise. Try these as a starting point, move the mics around a lot and find your 'sweet spot'. Every piano is different, and every piece of music will have different requirements depending on where the piano needs to 'sit' in the mix. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Scott