The trade name Disklavier (DISC-lah-veer) refers to a family of piano-related products [1] originated and continuously manufactured by Yamaha Corporation, based in Hamamatsu, Japan, with branches and subsidiaries worldwide.

The Disklavier is, in essence, a reproducing piano system utilizing electro-mechanical solenoids and an array of optical sensors connected to powerful light-emitting diodes (LED's) which allow the Disklavier to play notes and pedal strokes independent of any human performer.

Disklaviers have the capability to record data in the form of human input (as in a piano performance) and to replay that input accurately as a piano. Additionally, they are able to receive MIDI data, transmitted by floppy disk, CDRom, or via serial/and or USB cable even directly from the Internet.

As an added function, all Disklaviers are able to transmit MIDI data as well. Many are able to function, too, as "silent" pianos - playable in tandem with the use of headphones or other audio components.

The latest Mark IV series of Disklavier has wireless networking capability which enables the user to control the piano via either a PDA-style remote, or a Tablet-style remote. The Mark IV series also features an 80 gigabyte hard drive and a slim console, known as the Media Center, located under the left side of the keyboard. The Disklavier system is only incorporated into the piano at the Yamaha factory, and can be ordered into the full line of Conservatory and Concert line grand pianos, up to and including the CFIIIS concert grand. A limited edition Elton John Piano Signature Series was also released to commemorate Elton John's long standing use of the Yamaha CFIIIS piano. The Limited Edition Elton John piano is distinguished by it's remarkable red color and additional Elton John songs in it's memory, utilizing both audio and midi information.

In 2002, the first-ever International Piano-e-Competition ([2]), based in St. Paul, Minnesota, became the first such competitive musical event to utilize the Disklavier in transmitting and storing live performances.

The Disklavier was introduced to the US market in 1987 through Yamaha Corporation of America.([3]) --Jamesmarcus 02:55, 1 August 2005 (UTC)