Across classical, jazz and pop genres, there’s something truly wonderful about the piano and its ability to express a wide range of styles. Like any other instrument, purchasing a new piano can be a befuddling affair — especially if you’re just starting out, or if it’s been a while since you purchased your current piano!
To demystify the process, we checked in with Pianoland, who shares more about the different types of pianos, important things to consider, and their piano recommendations for beginners. Whether you’re searching for your first piano or an experienced player looking to upgrade your instrument, we hope this helps you take the next step in your musical journey.
What should someone know before buying their first piano?
Not all pianos are the same size. Before buying, measure the space you are planning to keep your piano in to make sure it will fit. It is also important to know that keeping a piano in good condition requires regular maintenance and tuning, which should be factored into your budget.
When trying out different pianos, what are some things we should look out for?
Pay attention to the touch and tone of the piano. The touch of the keys should feel comfortable and responsive. The sound should be rich, full, and balanced across all keys.
What are the differences between acoustic pianos and digital pianos?
Acoustic pianos have physical strings and hammers that produce sound when struck by the keys, to produce a rich, warm, and authentic sound. We recommend young learners start with an acoustic piano to build a solid foundation in a keyboard instrument, especially if you are looking to take piano examinations in the future.
The Boston 178 is a great example. It is constructed using solid spruce, the most resonant material available, and provides excellent sound. The Essex 123S is another ideal model for beginners as it provides great performance and durability for students learning piano across all grades.
On the other hand, digital pianos use digital samples of acoustic piano sounds. If you frequently practise at night, we recommend getting a digital piano — you can plug in headphones and play without worrying about disturbing others around you.
Digital pianos are also a great choice for pop pianists and players who wish to be creative. They often include a wide range of sounds to experiment with, including samples of instruments other than the piano. There are even digital pianos with functions for singers, like the Dexibell H10 digital piano, which comes with a microphone input and vocal effects.
When is it time to upgrade to a new piano?
The decision to upgrade to a new piano should be based on your individual needs, goals, and budget. If you're a serious musician or pianist and have outgrown your current piano's capabilities, upgrading to a better instrument can enhance your playing experience and help you progress in your musical journey.
We recommend upgrading from an upright piano to a grand piano for higher ABRSM grades and diploma level players.
Do you have any final advice for someone searching for a new piano?
Consider the type of music you want to play and the long-term goals of your piano learning journey — these will inform the features you prioritise in your next piano.
Looking for something to match your specific needs, or after a little more help? Pop by Pianoland to try their pianos for yourself and speak to their experts.
