WCW, 61 is the number of keys on an organ keyboard (called a manual) and that is where that number of keys came from. You can play all of the organ literature on two keyboards + pedalboard. Well, most of it, anyway. There is some that is written for three or more manuals, but it is a small part of the repertoire.

Tom

PS 76 key boards come from 76 key pianos that were made back in the days when everyone who could afford one, had a piano in their homes (back before radio and TV) and people made their own music at home. The 76 key versions were less expensive, usually, and took up less room in the living room while still being able to play most piano music.

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Bigger is not always better

[This message has been edited by Tomcat (edited 12-15-2003).]