Few instruments are as instantly recognisable as the piano. It’s formed the backbone of some of the most recognisable music in human history, with a sound and complexity that’s found a home in multiple genres since the invention of the piano — as we know it — by Bartolomeo Cristofori sometime around 1700.
In the 325 years that followed, it evolved with music as a medium, transitioning from an orchestral staple to a digital soundmaker and back, and can still be heard and played in both sonic realms.
That’s true in the case of Clavinova, the Yamaha piano brand that’s been an industry standard since 1983.
The name “Clavinova” itself is a portmanteau of the Latin words “clavier” (keyed instrument) and “nova” (new), and an easter egg to the instrument’s original name — clavicembalo col piano e forte. Bit of a mouthful, right? And as you can guess by the meaning of the brand’s name, their products are a marriage of old and new.
There are 21 specific models under the Clavinova name, divided into three main series. The CLP series is most closely aligned with classic grand pianos, ideal for players who want the finest control over their sound, with no extra buttons, dials or inputs to overcomplicate the simple magic of the keys.
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The CSP series is more beginner-focused, with a design tailored to players who struggle to read sheet music, aiding the process with descending stream lights that indicate which keys to press and when connected with the Yamaha Smart Pianist app.
Then there’s the CVP series. It’s best suited for the experienced pianist, boasting a wider range of digital instrumental and vocal options to make a lone player sound like an all-in-one ensemble performer. Yes, vocal systems mean karaoke, ideal for both jamming and performing.
Credit: Supplied
None of the above models, complicated or straightforward, swap true piano sounds and experiences for a tacky digital remake. Exact features vary per model, but you’ll find everything from three-dimensional acoustics and weighted keys to backing tracks and hundreds of instrument voices.
If you’re a private maestro or share a space with someone who lacks an appreciation for the art, make your pick ASAP to grab a bonus goodie. From now until February 28, 2026, the entire CVP series and certain CLP and CSP model purchases will come with bonus HPH-MT7 Studio Monitor Headphones or YH-WL500 Wireless Stereo Headphones, depending on the model.
Follow this link to find your nearest Yamaha stockist or to register your product and receive the bonus headphones in the mail. T&Cs apply.
