subject: Do You Need to Buy a Piano to Take Beginning Piano Lessons? [print this page] Do You Need to Buy a Piano to Take Beginning Piano Lessons?
If you are a beginner, you might wonder if you need to own a piano in order to take beginning piano lessons.
The answer is that it really depends on the type of lessons you choose. For example, if you're taking private lessons at a piano teacher's home, you might not need a piano in you own home. Of course, it will help to have your own piano to practice.
If you plan to learn at home with a book, DVD or online course, then you will need an instrument in front of you to get the most out of these lessons.
However, if you're just beginning piano lessons, you may have noticed that buying a piano is an expensive business. So how do you go about finding one that is right for you, and are there are alternatives to buying?
Advice for Buying a New Piano
First, it is a good idea to research the various types of piano. In most cases, vertical pianos are more suitable for a home, simply because they take up less room. In addition, they are typically less expensive.
However, many people maintain that vertical pianos cannot match the horizontal pianos for sound quality. Do a little research and find out which piano will suit your needs, budget and spatial constraints.
Most of your research can be done online. However, once you have narrowed down your choices, or found the 'one,' then it is a good idea to visit a number of music stores or piano stores in your area. The prices will vary, so this is definitely worth your time.
Ensure that you play, or get a salesperson to play, each of the instruments, so that you get a feel for the sound quality of the piano before you buy. Remember, not only is the piano an expensive item, it is also cumbersome, so, if possible, you want to make sure that you get your purchase right first time.
Alternatives to Buying a Piano
If you are concerned that you cannot afford to buy a piano, or you are worried that you may lose interest in your lessons after a few weeks, renting an instrument is a wonderful alternative to buying. Obviously, it is much cheaper than purchasing an instrument and it allows you to sample your lessons and an instrument without the financial commitment.
Typically, you can rent a piano for between $50 and $100 per month. However, the cost will obviously vary depending on the type and make of piano you wish to rent. The good news is that there are a great number of piano renting firms and a quick browse on the Internet will provide you with many results.
Of course, there is a second alternative to buying an expensive traditional piano and that is to consider an electronic piano. These are much less expensive than traditional instruments, and although purists believe that these instruments cannot compare with the 'real thing,' they do offer good sound quality. You may not be invited to play Carnegie Hall with your digital piano, but it is perfect for beginning piano lessons.
