The earliest keyboards, dating back to ancient Greece, were simply rows of wooden sticks that were struck with mallets. Over time, these sticks were replaced with keys that were covered with leather or ivory. The white keys were made from ivory, while the black keys were made from ebony.
There are a few reasons why pianos are still made with black and white keys. First, the contrast between the two colors makes it easier for pianists to see the keys while they are playing. Second, the different colors help to distinguish between the different notes. Third, the use of black and white keys gives the piano a classic and elegant look.
In addition to these practical reasons, there are also some symbolic reasons why pianos are made with black and white keys. In Western culture, white is often associated with purity and innocence, while black is often associated with darkness and evil. This symbolism can be seen in the way that pianists use the black and white keys to create music. For example, a pianist might use the white keys to play a gentle and melodic passage, while the black keys would be used to play a more dissonant and dramatic passage.
The black and white keys of the piano are a reminder of the instrument's long and rich history. They are also a symbol of the power of music to create beauty and emotion.