Hi everyone,
I'm a pianist, piano teacher, and software developer from Germany.
Together with my colleague Paul, I developed "Live Grand Modern D", a virtual grand piano based on a Steinway Model D concert grand.
Our main goal was not only to reproduce the sound of a concert grand, but also to recreate its playability, responsiveness, and expressive possibilities as closely as possible.
Some of the key features are:
- Ultra-low latency: Optimized for highly responsive real-time playing, supporting audio buffers as low as 32 samples on suitable hardware.
- Precise velocity calibration: Specially measured velocity curves for selected high-quality digital pianos and MIDI controllers, designed to reproduce the dynamic response of the original grand piano.
- Authentic tone shaping: Specially recorded piano sounds allow players to shape the tone through their touch, much like on an acoustic concert grand.
- 20 velocity layers: Capturing detailed tonal variations across the dynamic range.
- Up to 55 dB dynamic range: From delicate pianissimo to powerful fortissimo with appropriate calibration.
- Detailed pedal behavior: Supporting nuanced pedaling and expressive control.
To demonstrate the instrument, I've recorded my own performance of "Chopin's Fantaisie-Impromptu, Op. 66", with an interpretation inspired by Yundi Li.
Of course, latency and keyboard responsiveness cannot really be judged from a recording alone, but I hope the performance gives you an impression of the instrument's sound, dynamic range, and expressive capabilities.
There's also a free version called Live Grand Light, so anyone interested can try the instrument for themselves and get a feel for its sound and responsiveness.
You can find more information about Live Grand Modern D and the free version here:
https://www.musical-arts-school.com/piano-vst-plugins/live-grand-modern-d.htm
I'd be very interested in your impressions of the sound and realism of the virtual Steinway D.
Thanks for listening, and I'm looking forward to your feedback!