Скачать или смотреть Janko Keyboard Demonstration

Short demonstration of the Janko piano keyboard by NMM Collections Manager, Rodger Kelly. Paul von Jankó, a Hungarian mathematician, engineer, and musician, developed a piano keyboard in 1882 that reduced the hand stretches required of the player, making it easier to play in all keys. The keyboard was also stepped down toward the player, as is the modern computer keyboard, to produce "less exertion than ordinary pianos." As stated in Jankó's 1887 U.S. patent, "The strong muscles of the arm are utilized to the best advantage . . . in an easy and convenient position." However, the design failed to gain acceptance, pianists being hesitant to learn a new system. A Jankó piano, built by the Decker Brothers in New York about 1895, can be seen on display at the NMM.