I’m frequently asked for advice on purchasing a piano and I always respond with the same spiel. It’s safe to say a lo of people out there so I figured I’d let the internet know what’s up.

Before I get started, I need to make the distinction between a keyboard and a piano. This may be obvious to a lot of people, but I have encountered a few who weren’t sure of the difference. This was due to confusion about the term “digital piano” which is, in fact, not a piano.

 

Allow me to explain: Pianos create sound by causing metal strings to vibrate within a wooden cabinet; keyboards create sound by transmitting electronic signals through embedded speakers. I’ve came up with a rhyme to help you remember:

Need electricity? It’s a keyboard, you see. No wires or buttons? It’s piano! Have some mutton.

Note that I didn’t say it was a great rhyme. Here’s the rest of what you need to know: [Read more…]