ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Orphea: A Pocket-Sized 13-Key Electronic Piano by Pianni

other · 2026-09-01

Pianni, founded by pianist Jordan Daniels, has developed Orphea, a compact 13-key electronic piano that fits into a pocket. The instrument measures only slightly larger than a modern smartphone and retains a standard chromatic black-and-white key layout with physical pressable keys. It offers polyphonic playing, octave controls, built-in speakers, headphone output, MIDI connectivity, and USB-C charging. The current prototype spans one chromatic octave (C to C) across 13 keys, with dedicated octave controls extending the playable pitch range without increasing the footprint. Orphea addresses limitations of ultra-portable keyboards by preserving the tactile interaction and arrangement of a conventional piano. The instrument has undergone multiple prototype iterations focusing on key feel, mechanical behavior, enclosure geometry, internal electronics, speaker placement, and portability. Its molded plastic body balances low weight and durability. Designed as a portable musical sketchbook, Orphea is intended for use while traveling, outdoors, at a desk, or during quiet practice. Jordan Daniels has tested the prototype with simple melodies and complex repertoire, including a three-voice Bach fugue, demonstrating its polyphonic capabilities. The project is being refined towards production and is preparing for a Kickstarter launch.

Key facts

  • Orphea is a compact 13-key electronic piano developed by Pianni.
  • It measures only slightly larger than a modern smartphone.
  • It retains a standard chromatic black-and-white key layout with physical pressable keys.
  • Features include polyphonic playing, octave controls, built-in speakers, headphone output, MIDI connectivity, and USB-C charging.
  • The prototype spans one chromatic octave (C to C) across 13 keys.
  • Jordan Daniels, founder of Pianni, tested the prototype with a three-voice Bach fugue.
  • The instrument is designed as a portable musical sketchbook.
  • The project is preparing for launch through Kickstarter.

Entities

Artists

  • Jordan Daniels

Institutions

  • Pianni
  • designboom

Sources