Creative Workspace Struggles: EXEA
In the world of electronic music, the Furstein Silent Piano has become a surprising yet valuable addition to the arsenal of instruments. Erik, a member of the duo EXEA, has been using the Furstein Silent Piano for around five years, praising its unique features and benefits that cater to his creative needs.
The Furstein Silent Piano is an upright piano equipped with state-of-the-art silent playing technology. This technology mutes the hammer action inside the piano and transmits the key movement via MIDI or digital signals to headphones or other digital sound modules, allowing pianists to practice without producing external sound. This feature, known as silent practice capability, enables playing anytime without disturbing others, a significant advantage for those living in apartments or sharing spaces.
One of the standout advantages of the Furstein Silent Piano is its ability to maintain a high-quality acoustic piano feel alongside its digital silent functions. This combination allows musicians like Erik to enjoy the familiar feel of an acoustic piano while exploring the endless possibilities of digital sound.
Moreover, the Furstein Silent Piano offers MIDI connectivity, enabling connection to computers and music software for recording or interactive learning. This versatility makes it a suitable instrument for use both as an acoustic piano and a digital instrument.
Erik has found creative ways to utilise the Furstein Silent Piano in his music production. He adds processing to the piano sounds after recording to make them fit better into electronic music, such as warping, reversing, octave pitching, and Trance Gate. He also creates shaker and percussion sounds from the Furstein Silent Piano by softly plucking the strings and by layering a thin scarf in front of the hammers to create a felt piano sound.
In his newest single "Do It Right", Erik introduces the piano two bars before the hook comes in, and it continues throughout the song. The Furstein Silent Piano's sounds, even after effects, give the track a bit more human character, according to Erik, adding another facet to the genre of drum and bass music.
Erik's preference for the Furstein Silent Piano over drawing notes, despite his years of music training specifically in Jazz, indicates a shift towards acoustic instruments in drum and bass music production. The Furstein Silent Piano's keys, which are quite heavy, are beneficial for practice, strengthening fingers during practice, and providing a more authentic piano playing experience.
The Furstein Silent Piano's headphone jack output further enhances its appeal, allowing for silent practice without disturbing neighbours, especially on weekends. As more and more producers start to incorporate acoustic instruments, like the piano, into drum and bass music, the Furstein Silent Piano is becoming increasingly popular, adding a new dimension to the genre.
Erik is satisfied with his Furstein Silent Piano and appreciates its unique features and benefits that cater to his creative needs. The Furstein Silent Piano is not just a silent piano; it's a versatile instrument that bridges the gap between acoustic and digital music, providing musicians like Erik with endless possibilities for creative expression.
The Furstein Silent Piano, with its silent playing technology, offers a unique blend of acoustic piano feel and digital sound capabilities, perfect for musicians delving into electronic music like Erik. By connecting the Furstein Silent Piano to music software or computers, it can also serve as an instrument for recording or learning purposes, broadening its appeal in the entertainment industry.
