A piano is classified as a musical instrument belonging to the percussion and keyboard family. It produces sound through the striking of strings with hammers when a key is pressed, producing a wide range of tones. The piano is unique in that it can create both melody and harmony, allowing for complex compositions and expressive playing. This versatility makes the piano a popular choice for a wide variety of musical genres, from classical to jazz to pop. There are different types of pianos, including grand and upright pianos, each distinguished by size, tonal quality, and the way they produce sound.