ACOUSTIC PIANOS:
Must be full size (88 keys, weighted, pedals, and IN TUNE) with bench.
KEYBOARDS/DIGITAL PIANOS:
-
MUST HAVE 88 keys and 7 octaves. The keys should also be the same size as a real piano. These two points are really important for learning the correct finger spacing and scale of the instrument. It means that the student will be able to adjust to other pianos and keyboards that they might need to play elsewhere in the future.
2. Choose a keyboard with weighted keys. This means that you need to press them down but they spring back up like a real piano. Cheaper keyboards don’t usually have this feature. Learning to play on weighted keys builds finger strength and technique and means you can always adjust easily to a real piano. You WILL develop tendonitis over time without this crucial feature.
3. Touch sensitive keys means that they respond in volume according to how hard or softly you play them. This facility is usually only available on higher end keyboards. While it’s very convenient it’s quite different from an acoustic piano, which might cause problems later on. So this is something to watch out for. The keys should response to the touch and have sensitivity to volume and duration.
4. Make sure your keyboard comes with an adjustable stand, music stand, and sustain pedal. You might need to purchase these separately. You can then use any chair or stool that fits comfortably for the pupil’s hands to be at the same level as the keyboard, but an adjustable bench is strongly suggested.