As a kid, I already figured out my interest in music. However, since my family lived a frugal life, they could not afford a music lesson or tutor. Still, I learned to play the guitar at school. My friends would bring their guitar and persistently taught me the chords until I could strum each perfectly. Now that I am already a parent, I wanted to give the opportunity I never had before. I enrolled my daughter in a piano class at the age of four. I also enrolled my daughter in ballet and swimming lessons. But it seemed that the heavenly sound of piano keys enthralled her more than the twirls and strokes. So at the age of six, she focused on her piano lessons alone. Her piano teacher was impressed with the potential of my daughter when it comes to music. Since my daughter only had a digital keyboard with five octaves, her teacher recommended that I buy her at least eight octaves. My husband and I brought our daughter to a piano shop in Singapore to purchase her piano.
A Guide To Choosing My Child's Piano
The Piano Keys
We learned that a full-sized piano has 88 keys. At first, my husband and I preferred the digital piano since it is cheaper and not space consuming. However, digital pianos have fewer keys than full-sized piano. The piano shop that we went to in Singapore has digital pianos having a maximum of 66 keys.
We tested the quality of keys as well. We made sure that each key was not that hard to press and has a soft cushion. Keys with less resistance makes it easier for my child's tiny fingers to play.
The Type of Piano
Since we crossed out in our list the digital piano, we chose an acoustic upright piano. It has the correct number of keys and is more space-saving than a grand piano. The piano fitted nicely in our living room. It also sounded thicker, fuller, and more natural sound compared to my daughter's old digital piano, which sounded a little bit robotic and unnatural.
The Piano Brand
We saw a lot of piano brands at the piano shop in Singapore. Some names sounded familiar to us, but there were also foreign and new. We selected the brand that we knew is reputable in making high-quality and durable pianos- Steinway & Sons.
It came with a price, of course, but we wanted the quality of sound and the physical body to last for a longer period.
My daughter is taking piano lessons seriously, so my husband and I wanted to invest in something excellent.
The Piano Warranty
We considered the length of the warranty as well. The piano warranty length of a digital piano, electronic keyboard and acoustic piano was almost the same.
Most of them have a piano warranty of up to five years. Important reminder, usually, second-hand acoustic or digital piano and electronic keyboards do not have warranties. Consider this factor when you are planning to buy a second-hand piano.
Also, some brands do not give piano warranty for piano sold in a retailer store. Make sure to ask your seller about this before purchasing.
The Piano Maintenance
To be honest, the piano maintenance of an acoustic piano is more crucial compared to my daughter's old digital piano.
External piano maintenance is relatively easy and can be done even by my six-year-old daughter. It only needs regular dusting using a soft dry cloth. Dusting the keys and body prevents surface scratches and damages.
When it comes to tuning, we call a piano maintenance expert. We were told not to touch the insides of the piano unless we are expert in tuning it.
The Price
The price range of each piano may vary depending on the brand, type and quality. My husband and I considered buying a second-hand acoustic upright piano; however, since we learned that second-hand pianos don't have warranties, we chose a brand new one.
Steinway & Sons acoustic upright piano, of course, is more expensive than other unpopular brands. But we prioritise the quality over the price, and I think we already reaped what we invested since I am witnessing my daughter's new drive to play.
To be honest, I was intimidated when we first entered a piano shop in Singapore. I have zero knowledge when it comes to the instrument. My only advice is to do your research before purchasing one. Reading reviews will help as well. I also asked my daughter's piano teachers for buying tips and recommendations. Don't be shy to ask the piano seller for more information as well. Most importantly, bring your child. She said it felt like visiting Santa Claus' Northpole when we entered the shop. Including them in the shopping gives them the motivation to play and learn and it boosts their morale.
Steinway Gallery
Find the perfect piano for your child at Steinway Gallery. Steinway Gallery only provides high-quality and superior pianos for all young music prodigies in the making. Visit Steinway Gallery now.
