kawai's crystal grand piano to float on undulating waves of water during milan design week

for the first time, legendary japanese piano manufacturer kawai is participating in milan design week with an installation that showcases a new approach to instrument design. ‘crystal rain’, developed by light artist takahiro matsuo, centers around a crystal grand piano which floats upon undulating waves of water. as the instrument is played, each note sparkles as droplets of light rain down into the space surrounding the piano, further enhancing its brilliant transparency and luminous glow.

the installation sees a dreamlike space blend music, art, and technology
all images courtesy of kawai

‘crystal rain’ draws upon kawai’s more than 90-year-old expertise in crafting fine pianos. the installation for the superdesign show at superstudio sees a dreamlike space, where music, art, and technology merge. the crystal grand maintains the iconic form of a traditional piano, while its inner workings are revealed within a delicately-crafted transparent cabinet. by bringing together the latest technology with the unique textures and proportions a piano inherently has, the crystal instrument also enhances the pianistsʼ own appearance. during the program, artist takahiro matsuo will seek to transcend the rigid boundaries often associated with the musical instrument industry.

the crystal grand maintains the iconic form of a traditional piano

the instrument’s inner workings are revealed within a delicately crafted transparent cabinet

‘crystal rain’ draws upon kawai’s more than 90-year-old expertise in crafting fine pianos