How did keyboard instruments spread beyond Western music during the 20th century?

During the 20th century, the use of keyboard instruments spread widely outside the Western world, largely driven by the development and commercial proliferation of electronic instruments.1

While traditional acoustic keyboard instruments were historically linked to Western urban culture and not typically associated with folk music, the post-World War II era saw the rise of versatile, portable, and mass-produced electronic alternatives. Key factors in this global expansion included:12

• Electronic Organs: These instruments became a major segment of the musical instrument industry. Their ability to offer diverse timbres, automatic rhythm production, and compact designs made them highly suitable for domestic use and popular music ensembles worldwide.32
• Synthesizers: By the late 20th century, even more versatile and portable synthesizers replaced earlier electronic organs in many professional and popular contexts, further facilitating their adoption across different musical cultures.2
• Technological Accessibility: The advancement of electronic technology allowed for the creation of instruments that were more accessible and adaptable than traditional, large-scale pipe organs, which were often restricted to specific ecclesiastical or concert hall settings.32

These technological developments effectively decoupled the keyboard from its traditional Western acoustic constraints, allowing it to become a global tool for contemporary music production.13