How to choose a piano keyboard

Many people have a hard time finding an instrument that fits their needs, because they do not know how to choose a piano keyboard.  You should find and purchase a piano keyboard that is of reasonable quality for the price, not only if you play the piano for fun, but also if you do it professionally. You should also look for the qualities I describe below.

Playing the piano, taking piano lessons, and creating music on a daily basic requires having an instrument at home. Practicing is an essential part of growing as a musician and creating music.

Living in the big cities, like I do in New York City where most apartments are very small, sometimes doesn’t give us the option to buy the “real deal”. Not all apartments have space for an upright piano, much less a baby grand or a concert grand. Buying a piano raises questions like “where would we put it?” “how I would I get it here?” “is it going to be very expensive?”.

As a professional musician I can write a lot about finding the piano which suits you best, but today I will focus only on the basics of purchasing a keyboard when you do not have space for a real piano.

Many of you might think the keyboard is not something that a real pianist would have in their homes, but I myself practice on a keyboard at home.  The keyboard is a life saver when it comes to practicing.  For most of you who are just about to start playing the piano it will be a great choice and excellent investment.

There is a large range of piano keyboards on the market and without knowing what to look for, future or beginning pianists might get confused and spend their money the wrong way because they do not know how to choose a piano keyboard.

So here are the main criteria you should be looking for.

1. Full Size Keyboard: Having the full size keyboard is very important, because without the full range of the piano, you can quickly outgrow a smaller keyboard and will be unable to play all of the music your teacher gives you. The piano keyboard is 88 keys so don’t choose  a electric piano that has fewer keys than that. Otherwise, you will have to buy a second keyboard very soon which will cost you more money.
2. Weighted Keys: Weighted keys are made to play and feel just like the keys on a real piano. For some who are beginners, this probably doesn’t mean much but it is a huge factor that will influence your playing. Having the weighted keys will be a must as you advance your piano technique and work on creating different dynamics, articulation and phrasing.  These things are not possible without the weighted keys.
3. Cost: As long as your piano keyboard meets the above conditions, it should be suitable for serious piano study.  You may choose any piano within your budget.  Many keyboards come in packages with the keyboard stand, chair, speakers, and headphones, which makes a convenient package.

Don’t be afraid to ask friends opinions and recommendations as well and then most importantly start to enjoy your practicing. Now that you know how to choose a piano keyboard, your piano adventure can now begin.