top of page

How to Buy a Piano


While Let's Play Music is a piano program, we don't use pianos in 1st Year whih gives you a whole year to shop!


Minimum Requirements for Your Piano or Keyboard:

  • Full-sized keys (to build muscle memory with exact key distances)

  • At least 5 octaves (61 keys) for the full LPM curriculum

  • Electric keyboards are commonly used in class and can be found at yard sales, Craigslist, Black Friday sales, and stores. Since they don't need tuning, check if it's in tune using a free pitch pipe app (master tune frequency should be 440 Hz). Avoid keyboards with damaged transpose functions or pitch bender wheels, as they can affect tuning.


Although the extra features on electric keyboards are rarely used in class, choosing one with a good touch and sound is essential. Most families start with an upright piano and may upgrade to a grand piano years later.


Types of Acoustic Pianos:


  • Studio pianos (44”+ tall) offer the best sound.



  • Consoles (39”-42”) are slightly shorter but still a solid choice.



  • Spinets (36”-37”) have inferior sound and action.


Choosing Your Piano:

Visit reputable showrooms and try different pianos to find the tone (mellow, bright, loud, soft) and key touch you prefer. Once narrowed down, have your child test the options to choose the one that excites them. If your child is in the Green or Yellow semester, they can play songs to get a feel.


Buying a Used Piano:

If considering a used piano, work with a dealer or a piano technician to avoid hidden issues. Check for:

  • Out-of-tune or malfunctioning keys

  • Buzzing, rattling sounds, or damaged components

  • "Free" or cheap pianos often have costly repair problems


Digital Pianos:


These are gaining popularity due to their portability, touch sensitivity, and no need for tuning. When choosing a digital piano, test the key touch, sound quality, and sustain pedal. Try it with and without headphones, and assess the note sustain and sensitivity.


Final Setup:

Whichever instrument you choose, make sure it’s set up in an accessible, comfortable space before the Green semester. Your child will practice regularly, so make the environment inviting and clutter-free.


If you're unsure, consider renting first to ensure you love the instrument. Good luck!



 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page