One of the first questions parents ask is whether they need a real piano. The answer depends on your budget, space and how serious your child is about learning.
Portable keyboards
Keyboards with 61 keys are affordable and light, and perfect for the first few months. Look for touch-sensitive keys, so playing harder makes a louder sound. Without this, students struggle later on a real piano.
Digital pianos
A digital piano with 88 weighted keys feels very close to an acoustic piano. It never needs tuning, has a headphone socket for quiet practice, and fits easily in a flat. For most families this is the best long-term choice.
Acoustic pianos
Nothing quite matches the sound and feel of a good acoustic piano, but they are expensive, heavy and need tuning at least once a year. Humidity changes in the rainy season also affect them. Second-hand uprights can be a good deal if checked by a technician first.
Quick buying checklist
- At least 61 keys for beginners, 88 for long-term learners.
- Touch-sensitive or weighted keys.
- A sustain pedal input.
- A sturdy stand and an adjustable bench.
Buy the best instrument you can comfortably afford. A poor instrument makes learning harder than it needs to be.