7 February 2023 The Different Types of Pianos: Grand vs. Upright vs. Digital

The Different Types of Pianos: Grand vs. Upright vs. Digital

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Thinking of buying a new piano? You’ll quickly learn there are three different types of pianos: grand pianos, upright pianos, and digital pianos. Each type has its own unique characteristics and offers you different experiences while you play. Which is right for you?

Grand Pianos

Grand pianos are the most traditional type of piano known for their beautiful, rich sound. They are also the largest piano, with lengths ranging from 5 feet to 9 feet. The strings of a grand piano run horizontally, and the sound is projected upwards and outwards, giving it a full and resonant sound.

There are two main types of grand pianos: the concert grand and the baby grand. The concert grand is the largest and most expensive, with a length of 9 feet or more. It is designed for professional use in concert halls and is capable of producing a powerful and dynamic sound. The baby grand, on the other hand, is smaller in size (usually around 5 to 6 feet in length) and is more suitable for home use.

One of the main advantages of grand pianos is their high-quality sound. The long strings and large soundboard of a grand piano allow for a wide range of tonal colors and dynamics. They also have a more responsive touch, meaning that the pianist can easily control the volume and tone of the music.

However, grand pianos can be quite expensive and require a lot of maintenance. They also take up considerable space, which may not be practical for everyone.

Upright Pianos

Upright pianos, also known as vertical pianos, are smaller and more compact than grand pianos. They are named after the vertical orientation of their strings, which run from the top of the piano to the bottom. Upright pianos have a more focused and direct sound than grand pianos, and are suitable for smaller spaces.

There are two main types of upright pianos: the studio upright and the console upright. The studio upright is taller and has a larger soundboard, resulting in a richer and more resonant sound. The console upright is smaller and has a more compact soundboard, resulting in a more focused and controlled sound.

One of the main advantages of upright pianos is their affordability and space-saving design. They are also easier to maintain than grand pianos, as the strings and action are more easily accessible.

However, upright pianos may not have the same rich and dynamic sound as grand pianos, and the touch may not be as responsive.

Digital Pianos

Digital pianos are electronic instruments that mimic the sound and feel of a traditional piano. They use digital technology to produce sound and often have built-in speakers and a range of other features, such as different instrument sounds and the ability to record and play back music.

One of the main advantages of digital pianos is their versatility. They can produce a wide range of instrument sounds and can be easily connected to a computer or other devices for recording and editing music. They may be portable, and often require minimal maintenance.

However, digital pianos may not have the same authentic sound and touch as a traditional piano. They can be found at many price points, which makes them good contenders if you do desire a digital experience.

Which piano is right for you? It depends on your goals and needs. The difference between a grand, upright, and digital piano varies considerably. Sit down and touch and feel a wide selection today. 

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4 February 2023 Top Piano Brands for Every Budget

Top Piano Brands for Every Budget

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Piano enthusiasts have a wide range of brands to choose from when it comes to finding the perfect instrument. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a budget-friendly option or a seasoned pianist searching for a top-of-the-line grand piano, there’s a brand that’s right for you. 

What should you look for on your hunt for the perfect piano?

For beginners on a tight budget, some good options include Yamaha, Casio, and Korg. These brands offer a range of digital pianos at affordable prices, which are perfect for those just starting out. Digital pianos offer many of the same features as traditional acoustic pianos, such as weighted keys and multiple voices, but at a fraction of the cost. They are also much more portable and require minimal maintenance.

As you progress in your skill level and have a little more room in your budget, brands such as Kawai and Steinway & Sons offer a wide range of upright and grand pianos. These pianos are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and rich, full sound. Kawai, in particular, is known for using advanced technology, such as ABS-Carbon composite materials, in their grand piano actions, which helps to create a more precise and responsive touch.

For those looking to splurge on a top-of-the-line grand piano, brands such as Fazioli and Bösendorfer offer some of the finest instruments on the market. These pianos are handcrafted by skilled artisans and are known for their exceptional sound quality and attention to detail. They are also at the upper end of the market, with prices for a new Fazioli grand piano starting at around $100,000.

Other notable piano brands include Boston, Essex (made by Steinway), and Samick. These brands offer a range of upright and grand pianos at various price points, making them suitable for a wide range of skill levels and budgets.

Don’t see a particular brand here? This is just the start. There are many high-quality piano brands that make wonderful additions to any home. 

Whether you’re a beginner looking for an affordable starter piano or a professional searching for a top-of-the-line grand piano, there’s a brand that’s right for you. Do your research and consider your needs and preferences when deciding, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect piano for you.

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28 January 2023 How to Choose the Right Piano for Your Needs and Preferences

How to Choose the Right Piano for Your Needs and Preferences

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Why do you want to learn the piano? Is it to pick up a new skill? Or find a way to de-stress at the end of the day? 

People have a variety of reasons for selecting a new piano. But once you’ve decided you’re ready for the investment, how to choose the right piano may seem like a difficult task. Here are a few things to consider:

Purpose: What do you plan to use the piano for? If you’re an advanced player looking for a high-quality instrument for concerts and recordings, you’ll want something different than someone who is just starting out and needs a basic instrument for home practice.

Space: How much space do you have for a piano? A grand piano can be a beautiful addition to any home, but it takes up a lot of space and can be expensive to maintain. An upright piano takes up less space and is more affordable, but it may not have the same sound quality as a grand.

Budget: What is your budget for a piano? Pianos can range in price from a few hundred dollars for a starter to several hundred thousand dollars for a high-end concert grand. Determine your budget and look for pianos within that range.

New vs. used: Do you want a new or used piano? New pianos come with warranties and are generally in good condition, but they can be more expensive. Used pianos can be a good option if you’re on a tight budget, but they may require more maintenance and may not have the same sound quality as a new piano. Don’t discount used pianos, however. They are often a good choice for in-home use. 

Acoustic vs. digital: Do you want an acoustic or digital piano? Acoustic pianos are traditional instruments that use hammers and strings to produce sound. Digital pianos use electronic components to replicate the sound of an acoustic piano and often have additional features such as the ability to play other instrument sounds or record your playing.

Brand: What brand of piano do you want? There are many reputable piano brands to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Do some research and try out a few different brands to see which one you like best.

Size: A large home with a music room will have more space than a small urban condo that needs flexibility. Do you prefer something you can tuck into the closet when not in use, or do you want it to be the star of the room, put on display?

Touch and action: How does the piano feel? The touch and action of a piano refers to the keys and how they feel when you play. Some pianos have a lighter touch, which is easier for beginners, while others have a heavier touch, which can be better for advanced players. Try out a few different pianos to see which one feels the best to you.

Sound: How does the piano sound? The sound of a piano is subjective and can vary greatly from one instrument to another. Listen to a few different pianos and choose one with a sound that you like.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right piano for your needs and preferences. Remember to try out a few different pianos before making a decision and don’t be afraid to ask a salesperson or a musician for their opinion.

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24 January 2023 What Piano Maintenance is Necessary After You Buy

What Piano Maintenance is Necessary After You Buy

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Very few things are “buy it and forget it.” Instead, if you expect longevity and years of enjoyment, you’ll have to perform maintenance to keep it running well.

Pianos are no different. 

Piano maintenance is an important aspect of owning a piano. Grand and upright pianos both need regular maintenance to keep your instrument in good condition and ensure that it produces the best sound. 

What does that involve?

Tuning

Regular tuning is necessary to keep your piano in good pitch. How often depends on the piano’s age, usage, and environmental conditions. This is a process you’ll often find talked about online. There are lots of DIY manuals and videos, but keep in mind that a good piano tuner has years of practical experience. It’s something you feel as much as it is a learning process. 

Cleaning

Piano keys can get dirty and sticky over time, affecting the feel and response of the instrument. Regular cleaning with a soft, damp cloth is necessary to keep the keys clean. Additionally, the soundboard, strings, and other parts of the piano should be cleaned periodically. This is a careful process – you don’t want moisture to come in contact with any of the delicate parts. Harmful chemicals can also ruin the finish as well as hinder playability. Ask one of our sales associates for more details on the perfect cleaning methods. 

Humidity control

Pianos are sensitive to changes in humidity, which can affect their sound and stability. Maintaining a consistent humidity level is essential to prevent damage. Pay attention to room conditions, and consider using a humidifier in dry weather and a dehumidifier in humid weather to control the environment, if necessary.

Regulation

Regulation refers to adjusting the piano’s action, hammers, pedals, and other mechanical components. This should be done by a professional piano technician at least once every five years, or more frequently if necessary. Regulation ensures that the piano plays smoothly and produces the best sound. You can talk with the professional who tunes your piano for more information. 

Repairs

Like any functional asset you own, it will occasionally need repair due to normal wear and tear, or accidental damage. Repairs can include fixing broken strings, repairing action components, or fixing cracks in the soundboard. It’s critical to address repairs promptly to prevent further damage.

Polishing

Piano finishes can become dull over time. Polishing the piano’s finish helps to maintain its beauty and shine. Yet beware of chemical cleaners. Many of them can dull the finish. You can chat with one of our associates about the best way to keep your piano shining year after year. 

Ready to make your dreams come true by owning a piano this year? Proper piano maintenance is crucial to ensure that your piano stays in good condition and produces the best sound possible. 

Taking care of your instrument ensures that it lasts and provides you with many years of enjoyment.

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21 January 2023 10 Tips for Improving Your Piano Playing Skills

10 Tips for Improving Your Piano Playing Skills

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You’ve made a New Year’s resolution to improve your piano playing skills. Yet you’re having trouble sticking with a routine. Want to be a better piano player as we close out the coming year? Keep these tips in mind. 

Set clear goals: One of the most important steps in improving your piano playing skills is to set clear and specific goals. This could be anything from mastering a particular piece of music, to improving your technique or building up your finger strength. Setting clear goals will help you stay focused and motivated, and give you a sense of accomplishment as you achieve them.

Practice regularly: Consistency is key in improving your piano playing skills. Set aside a specific time each day for practice, and stick to it as much as possible. Even if you can only spare a few minutes a day, regular practice will help you make steady progress.

Start with the basics: If you’re just starting out, it’s essential to focus on the basics of piano playing. This includes learning proper hand positioning, finger placement, and the names of the notes on the keyboard. Once you have a solid foundation in these areas, you’ll be able to move on to more advanced techniques and pieces of music.

Use a metronome: A metronome is a device that produces a steady pulse, or beat, that can help you keep time and improve your timing and rhythm. Practice playing with a metronome to develop a sense of timing and internalize the rhythm of the music you are playing.

Listen to music: One of the best ways to improve your piano playing skills is to listen to music. Not only can listening to music give you inspiration and ideas for your own playing, but it can also help you develop a better ear for different styles and genres of music. Set your radio to a jazz or classical station. Buy tickets to your local symphony. Pay attention to what makes the music great, and you’ll be able to incorporate that into your own music. 

Experiment with different styles: One of the great things about the piano is that it can be used to play a wide variety of music, from classical to jazz to pop. Experiment with different styles of music to find what you enjoy the most and what will help you improve the most.

Take lessons or find a tutor: Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, taking lessons can be incredibly beneficial. A teacher can give you guidance and feedback on your playing, and can help you to identify and correct any bad habits you may have developed. And thanks to the internet, you can find specialists all over the world. 

Use sheet music: Sheet music provides a wealth of information about a piece of music, such as the melody, harmony, rhythm, and dynamics. Practice with sheet music to help you understand the structure of the music and how to play it correctly.

Take breaks: When practicing, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and lose track of time. However, taking breaks is important to prevent fatigue and burnout. If you find yourself tired after exceptionally long practice sessions, take a short break to stretch your fingers and give your mind a rest.

Have fun: Playing the piano should be enjoyable, so be sure to have fun while practicing. Try to find joy in the process, and don’t get too caught up in perfection. Remember that everyone makes mistakes, and that learning to play the piano is a journey that takes time and patience.

Improving your piano playing skills takes time and dedication. By following these tips, you will be well on your way to becoming a proficient piano player.

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18 January 2023 The Benefits of Taking Piano Lessons for Children

The Benefits of Taking Piano Lessons for Children

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Piano lessons can provide numerous benefits for children, both in terms of their intellectual and artistic development. Learning piano should move to the top of your list if you’re looking for a fun activity with lifetime rewards. It provides many benefits, including:  

Improved cognitive development: Learning to play the piano requires a great deal of focus and concentration, which can help children develop their cognitive abilities. In particular, piano lessons can improve children’s problem-solving skills, memory, and hand-eye coordination.

Greater creativity: Playing the piano allows children to express themselves creatively and explore their own musical ideas. Children develop a greater appreciation for the creative process and gain confidence in their artistic abilities as they learn to play different pieces and compose their music.

Increased self-discipline: Piano lessons can be challenging and require a great deal of practice. Through piano lessons, children learn the importance of discipline and setting goals for themselves, which can benefit them in all areas of their lives.

Enhanced math skills: Playing the piano involves understanding and working with fractions, intervals, and other mathematical concepts. By studying piano, children can improve their math skills, which can benefit them in the future.

Improved language skills: Music is a language in itself, as piano students learn musical notation to communicate musical ideas and express emotions. Also, children may improve their language skills because of the connection between music and language.

Boosted social skills: Playing piano with others, whether in a group lesson or a recital, helps children to learn how to work and communicate with others. This can be beneficial in developing social skills.

Increased self-esteem: As children learn to play the piano, they gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in their abilities. This can lead to increased self-esteem. Through consistent practice and progress, children will learn that they can achieve great things with hard work and dedication.

Need even more? Piano lessons provide many other benefits to children, including increased patience and perseverance, better study habits, and increased cultural knowledge.

Taking piano lessons can be an excellent investment for children’s overall development. If it’s on your to-do list for this year, find a skilled and experienced piano teacher who can guide your child through the learning process, and make it fun and enjoyable.

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14 January 2023 How to Practice Piano Effectively: Expert Strategies

How to Practice Piano Effectively: Expert Strategies

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Learning to play the piano can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but it requires dedication and a systematic approach to practice. 

Adding your own personality and expression to your playing is a crucial aspect of becoming a skilled pianist. Here are a few strategies you can use to practice the piano more effectively:

Study the music: Before you begin to play, take some time to study the piece and get a sense of its overall structure and mood. This will help you understand the composer’s intent and develop your own interpretation of the music. You might even listen to it in different versions by different performing artists. This gives you a sense of the music, and provides you with ideas to use for your own enjoyment. 

Use dynamics: Dynamics refers to the volume at which you play, and they are a powerful tool for adding expression to your playing. Experiment with different dynamic levels, such as playing soft in quiet sections and louder in more dramatic passages.

Use rubato: Rubato is the technique of slightly altering the tempo to add expression to the music. This can be used to slow down or speed up certain passages, or to create a sense of tension or release.

Play with feeling: To add personality to your song, it’s essential to play with feeling and emotion. Think about the message or mood of the piece you are playing and try to convey that to the audience.

Experiment with different styles: To develop a unique voice as a pianist, it’s essential to experiment with different styles of music. This will help you to explore other techniques and learn new ways to express yourself through the piano.

Practice expressive playing: Work on exercises that help you to develop your expressive playing, like playing a simple melody in multiple tempos and dynamics, or practice on simple and repetitive pieces focusing on conveying emotions through your playing.

Remember, adding your own personality and expression to your playing is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. Be patient with yourself and don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes. With time, you’ll build your own unique voice and style as a pianist.

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10 January 2023 Why It’s Time To Upgrade Your Piano

Why It’s Time To Upgrade Your Piano

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Pianos are a beloved instrument and a cornerstone of musical culture. But if you have an old piano, it may be time to upgrade to a newer model. Here are a few reasons why:

Improved sound quality: Modern pianos are built with higher-quality materials and advanced technology, which means they can produce a richer, more vibrant sound. This is especially important if you’re a professional musician or if you simply want to get the most out of your instrument.

Better touch and response: Over time, the action (the mechanism that connects the keys to the hammers) on older pianos can become worn and unresponsive. This can make it challenging to play with precision and expression. If you upgrade your piano to a new, modern model, it will be more responsive to the touch, which can greatly enhance your playing experience.

Increased durability: Pianos are a significant investment, and you want yours to last as long as possible. Newer pianos are built to withstand the rigors of regular use and are built to last for many years with proper maintenance. This means you’ll be able to enjoy your instrument for longer and get more value for your money.

Modern features: Many newer pianos come equipped with a variety of modern features, such as built-in metronomes, digital recording capabilities, and the ability to connect to external devices like computers and smartphones. These can make practicing and performing more convenient and fun.

Enhanced aesthetics: Pianos are beautiful instruments, and newer models can add an elegant touch to any room. With their sleek designs and high-quality finishes, upgrading your piano can be a stunning addition to your home decor.

Upgrading your piano can bring numerous benefits, from improved sound quality and touch response to increased durability and modern features. If you’re ready to take your musical experience to the next level, it may be time to consider upgrading your piano.

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7 January 2023 Why Pianos Slip Out Of Tune

Why Pianos Slip Out Of Tune

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One moment you play your favorite song on the piano, and it sounds beautiful. The next moment something’s off. It doesn’t sound quite right. What could be wrong? 

Your piano may have slipped out of tune. Why does that happen?

Standard acoustic pianos today are made up of more than 10,000 parts. As a piano is played, as it ages and as other things impact it, it can allow your piano to slip out of tune. The reasons include:

Regular play – how did you play today? Did you touch the keys softly? Did you bang out your favorite tune? The impact of touching each key can pull the piano out of tune. Every note causes the various parts to move and come together, creating the sound you love. Over time, this takes its toll on connections, and requires adjustment to bring them back in tune. 

Humidity – summer versus winter. Snow and cold versus heat and humidity. The temperature fluctuations can be wildly different from the heat of summer to the coldest day of the winter. And that brings new levels of humidity into your home. That impacts every piece of the piano, from the soundboard to the pinblock and beyond. As it swells and contracts, it will cause the piano to quickly slip out of tune. A rule of thumb is to keep your home at 40 to 50 percent humidity range. 

Consistency – pianos work better when their environment has little change. That means keeping it away from direct sunlight, drafty doors and windows, and vents that blow conditioned air. 

Age – new pianos have new strings that will take time to stretch and bend into place. Old pianos may have missing or broken pins that allow strings to slip out of place. Because of constant movement and change, frequency matters when tuning a piano over time. 

Repairs – if your piano technician has mentioned an issue with a pinblock or soundboard on a previous tuning session, it could cause further problems with how well your piano holds a tune. Regularity is essential when keeping your piano in good condition as it ages. 

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28 December 2022 Why You Should Keep Your Piano Away From Outside Walls

Why You Should Keep Your Piano Away From Outside Walls

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Pianos are delicate and sensitive instruments, and as such, they require a certain level of care and attention in order to maintain their beauty and functionality. One important aspect of piano care is ensuring that the instrument is not placed near outside walls. Here are a few reasons why you should keep your piano away from outside walls:

Temperature and humidity fluctuations: Pianos are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Placing them near outside walls can expose them to these fluctuations. This can cause the wood in the piano to expand and contract, leading to warping and other damage. In addition, extreme temperature changes can damage the piano’s strings, causing it to go out of tune.

Risk of damage: Outside walls are more susceptible to damage from things like water leaks, pests, and other external factors. If a piano is placed near an outside wall, it is at an increased risk of being damaged by these things. In addition, if the exterior wall is not properly insulated, the piano may be exposed to drafts, which can also cause damage.

Lack of sound quality: Pianos are designed to produce beautiful, rich, and vibrant sounds. However, an outside wall may dampen or distort the sound. This can negatively impact the quality of the music being played, and may even make it difficult for the pianist to hear themselves.

Take a look at your room; where have you placed your piano? It is important to keep your piano away from outside walls in order to protect it from temperature and humidity fluctuations, damage, and poor sound quality. By taking the time to carefully consider the placement of your piano, you can ensure that it will continue to provide you with beautiful music for years to come.

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