Anyone interested in pursuing learning to play piano nowadays will usually check out what options are available for some type of online piano lessons
. However, before making any type of long term expensive financial commitment, be sure you have a good understanding of what you are getting in return for your time and money.
Online lessons can be of value if they are based on streaming video and some two way practice sessions. This type of lesson is frequently scheduled using either webcams or an online meeting space similar to Microsoft Office Live where you can see and interact with your teacher and perhaps even other students.
Other types of instruction online have less value. Printed pages or even printed music sheets to show you chords really don't do much in the way of training; you don't get the benefit of two way instruction.
Of course, no type of instruction is of any value without at least a keyboard to practice on. Not everyone can afford a full size piano, and many homes and apartments don't even have the floor space for one. Not to mention the fact that many individuals do go out and purchase pianos only to find out they change their minds about their interest levels quickly.
An excellent alternative is the new "roll up" keyboard which is exactly what it sounds like: a keyboard that can be rolled up and will easily fit into a purse or backpack. It runs on batteries and is very affordable. You can take it anywhere and practice anywhere.
They are perfect for students of all levels, even those who do have full size pianos at home. Since they are so transportable, you can practice anywhere at all.