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Zoe Lim

Parents' Guide to Buying Your Child's First Piano


a child playing the piano

Every parent wants the best option for their child and buying a piano for the first time can be a major investment and a huge decision to make. There are many things you have to consider factors before making a decision such as size of the piano, the weight of the keys, and how long is your child going to be playing?


The most common questions asked when a parent is purchasing a piano is, "What kind of piano should I buy?" Usually, it is followed up by the question, "What if my child quits halfway?" These concerns are valid as it can be tricky business when it comes to selecting the best piano for your child. But don't worry, we are here to guide you in this journey. Just remember, that when you are purchasing an instrument for your child, you are not just buying a physical object. This could be the start of your child's path towards a lifetime of passion for music.


Tip #1 : Acoustic or Digital Piano


Before deciding on whether to get either an acoustic or digital piano, ask yourself these two questions:

  1. Is this going to be a lifetime education for my child?

  2. What is my budget?

If you are adamant on having your child take his/her piano lessons seriously, and you can afford a higher price, then acoustic is the way to go. These instruments respond better to a finger's touch, has a longer lifespan and overall, holds a much better value than digital pianos. Do note that if you are certain to purchase an acoustic piano, let your child choose the right fit by testing out these pianos in situ instead of buying online.


Digital pianos, on the other hand, are more suited if you are unsure if your child is going to be interested in the piano in the long run. The sound of a digital piano may not be able to replicate an acoustic one, but it does have its advantages. It is more travel-friendly, more lightweight, less expensive, can be played with headphones and doesn't need tuning! Most digital pianos and keyboards also comes with effects, which can be a fun thing for your child to play around with.


Tip #2 : Size of Piano


The size of the piano is also something you should take into consideration. Is there enough space in your house to accommodate a full sized piano (88 keys) or smaller pianos with 61 or 76 keys? For beginners, some would recommend buying a small piano first, as they will start off practicing a few notes before transitioning to a full sized piano. However, if you and your child are committed to a lifelong music education, then purchasing an 88-key piano is the right way to go.


Tip #3 : Weighted Keys


Weighted or non-weighted keys are also something to take into consideration. For a child, of course, non-weighted keys are easier for them to get used to as they will need less finger strength. But, if they are to transition to weighted keys, then it could get difficult. Acoustic pianos usually have weighted keys while digital pianos have non-weighted keys. However, of course there comes digital pianos with weighted keys. Ask around the shop for assistance for your child to try out these different types of pianos to see which is more comfortable for them. Building finger strength on weighted keyboards would be the better option if your child is committing in the long run.

 

Zoe is an avid fan of all kinds of music. Her primary instrument is the guitar but she is always passionately learning how to play other instruments such as the drums and keyboard. She is currently playing the bass guitar in a band and has been routinely involved in music since she was a child.

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