Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
17th International İstanbul Scientific Research Congress, İstanbul, Türkiye, 28 Eylül 2025, ss.777-791, (Tam Metin Bildiri)
In the historical development of the piano, the “pedal” emerged in response to various musical
requirements and, over time, with the advancement of different notational and performance practices,
became one of the fundamental elements directly influencing piano performance. In contemporary
pianos, there are three types of pedals with distinct functions: the right pedal (sustain), the middle
pedal (sostenuto), and the left pedal (una corda). The pedal serves multiple purposes, such as revealing
the harmonic structure of a piece, reinforcing its rhythmic framework, creating a legato effect by
connecting sounds, enriching tonal color, and articulating separation between tones, thereby
functioning as a crucial factor that broadens the instrument’s sonic possibilities. The subtleties of
pedal usage are directly related to technical skills, including the timing of its engagement, depth,
duration, and release. Therefore, the proper use of the pedal is considered an essential component in
determining the quality of performance, in accordance with the character of the work. Furthermore,
pedal usage varies depending on the composer’s style, the period to which the piece belongs, as well
as the acoustic characteristics of the instrument and performance venue. A review of the perspectives
of significant pianists and pedagogues throughout history reveals the indispensable role of accurate
pedal techniques in shaping a refined interpretation. In this study, the historical development of piano
pedals has been examined from both technical and performance-oriented perspectives. Within this
framework, the technical capacity of the pedals, their contribution to ease of performance, and their
role in enriching tonal color have been demonstrated through the musical analysis of works from
different periods. The findings of the research indicate that, through their diverse applications, pedals
have profoundly influenced piano music in terms of both composition and performance practice.