Last month Yamaha launched the new Clavinova CSP making it available for purchase at retail outlets. It is a product that is believed will revolutionise the industry, embracing new technologies and coupling it with traditional artistry. The CSP is the first digital piano which is able to be completely controlled through a smart device whether that be a phone or a tablet. As people have become accustomed to the everyday use of their smart devices it was only the next logical step to introduce this with the piano, allowing people to have the same instant and easy control.
The Clavinova can be connected wirelessly or via a cable that directly hooks up to your device. One a connection is established; the device will then open the Yamaha SmartPianist app which allows the user to enhance their playing in a variety of ways. It can be used to improve your technique, allow you to play along with your favourite pieces and even select an accompaniment score. One of the best features of the app is that it gives you access to over 400 songs, 470 varieties of accompaniment styles and 692 voices. This allows you the opportunity to have complete control over the performance; by combining a traditional instrument with the capability of the smart device you are able to achieve so much more. Not only can you have total harmonic control over an entire band of your own creation, you can also adjust the piano’s sound and tempo to suit the mood of your composition.
However, what really sets this new product apart from the rest is the accessibility it provides to not only experiences pianists but also beginners. Yamaha has incorporated its own Stream Light System which makes learning to play the piano easier than ever. Whilst in the past there have been LED systems within the keys, this piano instead has a more discreet set of red and blue LEDs which appear above the keys at the appropriate moment, perfectly guiding you through the song. From the moment you begin playing, even if it is your first time, you will feel a sense of achievement as a result.
Yamaha has successfully reinvigorated what it means to play an instrument and has opened the door in showing other companies ways in which traditional instruments and technology can be combined. It has never before an easier and more pleasurable experience to learn the piano for people of all ages. It is particularly poignant with the younger generation who are already accustomed to using smart devices as a means of learning. With that in mind, it doesn’t exclude the more traditional and seasoned pianists with all its guided feature, the instrument only has two buttons allowing it to humbly retain its classic design.
The Yamaha Clavinova is currently available in two models, those being the CSP-150 and the CSP-170 with the latter being the costlier of the two. The main differences you will find are the keyboard action and power of the speakers, other than that the two are identical and both available in black, white and polished ebony finishes.