Back in the 1990s when I was learning piano, I knew that piano lessons were conducted only on acoustic pianos. With the advancement of technology in the 2000s and the popularity of keyboards for performances and home use, there has been a shift towards more people buying keyboards instead of pianos. In fact, many individuals are opting to get rid of their pianos, and the demand for them has decreased. In light of this trend, is it acceptable to take lessons or practice on a keyboard rather than an acoustic piano?
I still require an acoustic piano experience. No matter how nice the keyboard is, the unique touch and sound of the piano cannot be replicated. Children, in particular, experience explosive development in their hearing between the ages of 4 and 5. Engaging in rigorous training with finely-tuned musical instruments can aid in the development of their ability to discern music notes.
Let's talk about piano touch. On the upright piano, a vertical hammer moves back and forth to strike the strings, whereas on the grand piano, a horizontal hammer moves up and down to strike the strings. The touch on the grand piano is heavier, allowing for more detailed sound. When you open the lid, the sound is much louder, so students majoring in music or professionals practice playing the grand piano when they practice or perform.
Should I never use a keyboard? There are also positive aspects of the keyboard. Children under 4 years old are not yet fully developed in their fine motor skills. Therefore, playing the piano can be challenging for them. Instead of starting with a traditional piano, it can be a good option to begin with a keyboard to make the experience more enjoyable and less daunting for beginners.
Unlike the acoustic piano, which requires continuous tuning, the digital piano has the advantage of not incurring any maintenance costs. It is also inexpensive, making it easier for you to own the instrument without any burden.
These days, affordable hard-touch (weighted) keyboards are also available. I would recommend a keyboard with 88 keys and simple functions because it provides a better touch experience compared to keyboards with a wide range of functions. If possible, I would recommend products from Roland or Yamaha, renowned musical instrument companies known for their high-quality yet expensive instruments. I suggest purchasing a product that fits your budget while meeting the mentioned criteria. Many 61- or 49-key instruments have soft-touch keys and are considered more toy-like, so I do not recommend them.
I believe that the optimal choice for piano learners is an acoustic piano. Nevertheless, in practice, acquiring one is not simple. It requires periodic tuning, and if you relocate, you will need to hire a moving company separately. Additionally, it can be challenging to dispose of. Considering this, I believe there will be no issues at the beginner level if you purchase the keyboard recommended above, attend lessons with a grand piano or acoustic piano, and practice separately.
(c) 2024 LeannCho
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