25 October 2017 What Group Piano Is and Isn’t

What Group Piano Is and Isn’t

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Did you have music in your life? It was far more commonplace a few decades ago then it is in today’s classrooms. 

A lot of us grew up with a piano in the living or family room. An equal amount of us grew up playing an instrument in the band or orchestra in school. It was a popular activity, one many of us carried with us from elementary to junior and senior high school. 

Looking back, what did you enjoy most about playing in the school band? Chances are it was the group interaction. It wasn’t just you making music; your friends were all there too. You played together and stayed together as you moved from one grade to the next. What Group Piano Is and Isn’t

That’s what group piano is. It’s social. It’s a dynamic way to learn the piano where kids develop their keyboard skills while sitting with their peers who encourage and support one another. By being a part of a group, it has the potential to generate enthusiasm and motivation that could otherwise be lost from being isolated and alone. 

If you’ve ever walked in on a group lesson before, you’ll discover one thing: it’s loud. Imagine multiple people hammering out the same song as they go along. Sometimes they’re together – sometimes they’re not. But as they play they listen, which helps them develop a better sense of rhythm and tempo. In the same way you used your fellow band members to listen and keep you up to speed, that’s what group piano is all about. It’s about a little friendly competition to keep them on track. And best of all, they’re having fun. 

Playing together also fosters the right conditions for problem solving. 

In order to change it up, piano teachers often give students homework to “compose” things on their own. When you do this as a group, interesting things can happen. If you give them a chance together, they can generate many possible ways of exploring a concept. This means the teacher is merely a facilitator with the students discovering direction all on their own. They push each other. They play together. They critically look at the situation and help move each other forward. 

And should we say: this is learning at its best!

Because at the end of the day, it’s all about helping your kids become the best they can be. And if that means introducing critical thinking skills and making the discovery process even more enjoyable, imagine what piano playing could do for their self-esteem. 

Group piano – it may be just the thing your child needs. 

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9 October 2017 Do You Know What’s Inside That Piano?

Do You Know What’s Inside That Piano?

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If you’ve decided to purchase a piano, you’ve probably started the process by doing a little homework. That’s probably what’s brought you to this site here. 

As a piano dealer with decades of experience, you’ll find a wealth of information for what to look for when you’re buying either a new or used piano. 

Expert Advice For Choosing A Piano

The Price You Should Expect To Pay For A Used Piano

Buying A Piano Online

Buying A Child’s First Piano

What Wood Is Best For Making A Piano

Do You Know What’s Inside That Piano?We know how confusing it all can be. What makes a one manufacturer different from another? How can you find a good used piano? What makes each piano different? And more importantly, whose advice should you trust? 

Some people will have you believe that a piano is a piano – they are all about the same no matter where they come from. Not so. Some will tell you there isn’t much difference in sound from one piano to another. Not true. 

In fact, it’s easy to compare how well a piano is built no matter where it’s assembled. It’s not just the sound; it’s the way they are made. Open up every piano you are considering and take a look at what’s inside. 

The soundboard – a great piano will be made of spruce (the most common wood used in piano production) with continuous parallel grain. Look for consistency in both the grain and the color. 

The plate gap – for the soundboard to work efficiently, it needs to move freely. A good piano will float the plate gap between the frame and the soundboard to allow that freedom of movement. 

The frame – on an upright, look for a solid wood frame construction with backposts that reinforce the plate. 

The bass bridge – the shape of the bridge will tell you the quality of construction. A curved bass bridge is designed to connect with the sweet spot of each string, whereas a straight bass bridge will muddy the lower notes. 

The action – each action should be consistent and made of similar wood. If you see grain differences and spots on the wood, it can change the voice and the sound. 

The differences matter in both the sound quality and longevity. Don’t rely on a salesperson telling you it’s a great piano. Do a little investigation to determine its quality on your own. 

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29 September 2017 Expert Advice For Choosing A Piano

Expert Advice For Choosing A Piano

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Even a beginner needs a piano that plays well.

To give a child a piano to play on that is out of tune is similar to giving a child a ball that is flat. Sure they can play with it, but they’ll never effectively learn the skills required to play the game. They’re at a disadvantage even before they begin. And if they can’t play effectively, what’s the point?

There’s an adage that says: never judge a book by its cover. That applies to pianos too. Just because the outside is beautiful doesn’t mean the inside is worth anything at all. Many of the prettiest pianos are the lowest quality instruments barely able to perform.Expert Advice For Choosing A Piano

Instead, a beginner needs a piano that plays well. It should have a pleasing tone and a responsive touch. If they can’t feel and hear what they are doing, they will never progress beyond being a beginner.

Is there a recommendation for the best piano to buy?

We’re asked that all the time. Unfortunately, there are thousands of different makes and models of pianos if you factor in new and used. And even once you select a particular brand, there are good and bad examples abound. What works for one might not necessarily be the best for another. That’s why there are so many preferences and choices.

The key isn’t necessarily in finding a recommendation for the best piano; instead, it’s about finding a reputable piano dealer you can trust. A good dealer isn’t going to try and sell you a bad piano. Instead, they are going to listen carefully to your needs and provide you with ample selection to fit within your requirements.

They know that if you succeed with your choice, you will more than likely remember them when it’s time to refer a friend, or even upgrade your own piano.

There’s a wide range of pianos on the market. Age isn’t a factor – some of the best pianos in the world are decades old. Instead, it’s always vital to see, hear, and play the piano for yourself before making any decision.

A reputable dealer will select their pianos carefully and restore or repair used with the aim of providing the best tone and touch possible. Their work will be guaranteed.

What questions do you have about choosing a piano for your home?

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8 September 2017 Should You Buy A Digital Grand Piano?

Should You Buy A Digital Grand Piano?

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Ready to buy a digital grand piano?

Digital grand pianos off you all the features and functions you’re looking for in a grand piano while combining the technology you’re looking for in a digital product. If you purchase the right digital grand piano, you’ll get a realistic feel, beautiful sound, and the second best option right under a grand piano.

Yet before you make the final selection, what should you look for? It’s important to understand some basic differences between the different types of pianos to aid you when making your purchase.

Size is different when comparing upright with grands.Should You Buy A Digital Grand Piano?

Weight – the average grand piano weighs between 550 to 1100 pounds. The average upright piano is closer to 330 to 550 pounds. Also keep in mind that uprights have a smaller footprint, and thus less space is required.

Movement – a grand piano is more difficult to move and pass through doorways. Even moving it from one room to another can be a difficult task.

When you compare a digital to an acoustic grand, you will be able to find a full range of sizes with either, from a baby to a full size. If space is not a factor, you can opt for a full grand digital instrument, whereas if you have restricted space, you can find a variety of smaller instruments to fit your needs.

In most cases, when you buy a piano at this level, you are buying for it to last. You will not be replacing your piano often, so it’s important to look at material and construction, ensuring it’s durable and will last for years. A high quality wooden or fiberglass construction is idealistic; avoid low priced plastic construction that may need replacements sooner. You dealer is happy to show you the difference and should be willing to take the time to help you consider your options wisely.

Your keyboard is another important consideration. What separates a good digital keyboard from an inferior one is the realistic touch and action. Sensitivity, responsiveness of the keys, and weighted hammer action is something will ensure you have a piano that is effective to learn on, practice, and perform.

You should also learn about the sound and voice. Your digital grand piano should offer realistic sound and tonal quality. It should provide you with the same quality as an acoustic. Most digital instruments at this level will have built-in technology and realistic sampling that provides realistic sound, tone, and voice, but it’s important for you to test to ensure you are happy with the results.

And because you are looking at a digital grand piano, also ensure connectivity meets your needs. Some offer USB, MIDI, AUX input/output, along with headphone and utility jacks. Be sure your digital grand piano offers the technology you need today and ensures you’ll have capabilities for many years to come.

What’s the perfect choice for you? If you are looking for a digital grand piano, stop by to see all of the options waiting for you.

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31 August 2017 The Price You Should Expect To Pay For A Used Piano

The Price You Should Expect To Pay For A Used Piano

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How much does a good piano cost?

Should you accept one for free from a Craigslist ad?

Can you get one for a few hundred dollars?

Will an inexpensive model provide you with years of enjoyment?

We hear questions like these all the time. The Price You Should Expect To Pay For A Used Piano

People want to give piano lessons a try but are afraid to invest in a piano if they don’t continue for the long term. 

People want to fulfill their desires of playing the piano but want to do so with the least expensive model they can.

Sound familiar?

But what is considered a good deal? What price should you reasonably expect to pay for a used piano?

A lot of it comes down to luck and persistence, especially if you’re going to “trust” the online world. Some people get good deals on used pianos. Most don’t. Of course, it’s always the good deals that make you think anything is possible. 

But if you really want to play the piano and enjoy creating music, it’s in your best interest to get the best piano you can. That means one that is clean inside and out. One where the action is reliable. One that plays well and holds a proper tune. One that provides inspiring music now and will continue to do so for years to come. 

Rule #1: A good upright is better than an inferior grand

You may love the looks of a grand piano. But if you shop with budget in mind, focus in on getting the best upright for your money and save your dreams of a grand piano for when you can afford to put in more. 

Rule #2: A piano professional is in your best interest

If you pick up a piano through a classified ad, you are taking your chances on how well it operates. It may appear to play well, but what happens when you bring it home and discover it’s out of tune? What happens when the tuning professional reveals parts are missing and broken when he attempts to tune it? Using a professional to get the best piano possible can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. 

Rule #3: Avoid analysis paralysis

Rather than continuing the hunt for the “diamond in the rough,” invest in the best piano possible at your budget level with thoughts of upgrading in the future when you can afford more. A professional is happy to help you select the best piano for your current investment level, and will also take into account resale value to ensure your upgrade will help you save as much as possible. Don’t debate on what to do today. You’ll miss out on the opportunity of playing and learning you can do in the coming days and weeks. 

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13 August 2017 Digital or Acoustic, What’s The Best Piano For Your Child To Learn On?

Digital or Acoustic, What’s The Best Piano For Your Child To Learn On?

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Digital pianos are turning up everywhere. You’ll find them at your big box store. And you’ll find them to be more affordable than the standard acoustic piano. But does that mean they are the right choice for your child to learn on?

One of the main advantages of a digital piano is that they are significantly less expensive than an acoustic piano. For many people, that’s a significant advantage, especially if you aren’t sure if your child will enjoy it. Digital or Acoustic, What’s The Best Piano For Your Child To Learn On?

Digital pianos are also more compact than acoustic pianos, and can be used in a home of any size. While traditional instruments have to find a corner to tuck into, or in the case of a grand piano, be prominent in a large living space, digital pianos can be folded up after every practice and stowed away. They can also be transported with ease for lessons or to play in a band. 

Unlike acoustic pianos, digital pianos don’t require the regular maintenance schedule. Digital pianos never require tuning, and can also be played in more extreme conditions, unaffected by heat or humidity. 

And if you live in close proximity to others, such as in a dorm or apartment, digital pianos also offer the convenience of working with headphones, meaning you can practice in silence anytime you choose. That can be convenient for roommates, or in family situations where other kids are doing homework or sleeping. 

Despite all the conveniences of digital, there are a few drawbacks as well. 

A digital piano will never sound or feel like the real things. Moreover, only the most sophisticated digital instruments are able to mimic the key dynamics of a real piano. In other words, digital pianos may play the same way, but they rarely sound or feel the same. 

That means the less expensive instrument you buy may not be benefiting the player in the same way as if they were playing on an acoustic. And if they aren’t practicing with the real thing, they are missing the opportunity to “hear” what they play. 

Part of the pleasure of learning to play the piano is to “feel” the music. If the notes are all wrong, the sound isn’t quite right, and you can’t “feel” the notes, some budding pianists lose interest. 

It’s like playing soccer with a flat ball. 

If you’re in the market for a piano – digital or acoustic – it’s important that you purchase the right piano for your needs. We can help. 

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2 August 2017 How To Buy A Used Piano On Craigslist

How To Buy A Used Piano On Craigslist

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Want to know how to find the best pianos on Craigslist?

The answer is – stop looking. 

The pianos listed on Craigslist usually come in one of two forms. 

1. The piano has been neglected for years. 

2. The piano has a lot of problems, and the owner simply wants to dump it on someone else. How To Buy A Used Piano On Craigslist

In either case, do you really want to take on that amount of problems? Especially if you really want to start playing the piano?

Some people find what appears to be good deals on Craigslist and feel they have to jump on it immediately or lose it forever. If they really are good deals, they wouldn’t be on Craigslist to begin with. 

If a person cares about their piano, they attempt to sell it through private sellers. They work with a realtor as they are moving or downsizing their homes. They work with piano tuners and piano teachers and find someone who wants to buy. They approach a dealer and sell the best back. 

When buying a used piano, you want one that feels the best and sounds the best TO YOU. This is important because the piano is yours to play. You want to love the way it feels and the way it sounds. 

You want one that looks great wherever you choose to place it. That means it should have a console that blends with your furniture and be free from scratches or marks. 

You want one that is in tune and can easily be kept in tune. An out of tune piano means either the owner didn’t care for it, or it’s slipped quickly out of tune due to a dried out pinblock or cracked bridge. 

Will you find a good piano deal on Craigslist? Chances are the answer is no. If we can help you find the best piano for you, give us a call today. 

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24 June 2017 Buying A Piano Online

Buying A Piano Online

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Have you ever tried to buy a piano online? 

You’re probably thinking it’s easy. After all, a quick search brings up millions of results. You can find pianos everywhere. 

Need a piano in a hurry? You’ll find them listed on Craigslist or eBay or your favorite local classified section. A quick call will have you the proud owner of a piano in no time. 

Buying A Piano OnlineYou can buy a sweater or a book or shoes online. They are easy to see through photographs, easy to mail to your home, and easy to return if they aren’t as promised. Manufacturers know this, and so they have turned to the online world in droves. 

But you won’t find that with an acoustic piano. Because acoustic piano manufacturers know that it isn’t the look of a piano that matters most. 

Piano manufacturers have dealers to sell their pianos to the public because they understand it’s more than the looks that make a piano a great investment. They understand it takes a solid evaluation to determine if a piano is high quality and worth the money you pay for it. 

Pianos are also one of the bulkiest pieces of furniture you’ll ever own. From the time they are manufactured, they are moved and wrangled and maneuvered into place. They are played and wrestled into tune again and again throughout the years. They aren’t something you and a buddy can move easily; a professional mover ensures it arrives at its final destination in good shape. That’s what makes pianos next to impossible to buy and ship easily through website sales, especially when it’s halfway around the world. 

A piano isn’t something you can run to the hardware store when something goes wrong. You can’t pound a new piece of wood into place when you accidentally drop it. You can’t rig in a new piece of plastic when a key fails. The strings in a piano aren’t strings at all. If someone attempts to “fix” a piano without the technical knowledge to do it effectively, the piano won’t be worth playing at all. 

So when you say “yes” to a piano online on Craigslist or eBay, what are you truly saying yes too? 

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15 May 2017 Comparing The Organ to The Piano

Comparing The Organ to The Piano

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If you’re thinking about purchasing a digital piano, you may wonder what the difference is between an organ and a piano.

First, it’s important to understand that even though both the piano and organ have keyboards, they belong to different instrument groups. The piano is classified as a percussion instrument, while the organ is considered a woodwind instrument.Comparing The Organ to The Piano

When you strike the key of a piano, it is attached to a hammer that strikes a string tuned to a specific frequency, which produces a sound. The vibrations and sounds are quick to fade.

When you strike an organ key, however, you are completing a circuit that creates a sound. This sound can be sustained indefinitely, as long as you continue to hold the key.

The piano will sound more acoustic as it is being played, while an organ will sound more electronic.

Organs were designed to produce a variety of sounds throughout the woodwind family, including reed and brass instruments. They can also produce a variety of other effects with the touch of a button. While the lines are blurring a bit with modern digital pianos, in most cases the piano makes a better lead instrument, while organs are better for supporting chords.

Typically an organ is easier to play. You must learn to play bass notes on a pedaled keyboard while controlling the dynamics with a volume pedal. Pianists must learn more complicated fingering and be able to play complex chords.

Because organs are often designed with easy play methods, they allow you to start playing songs within minutes. For a hobbyist who simply chooses to play a few familiar songs, it can be an easy process to hear your favorite songs within a few short practice sessions.

But if you want to hone in on a complex skill, creating richer tones and familiarizing yourself with a complex talent that can take a lifetime to learn, you can never go wrong with a piano.

Want to learn more about organs and pianos? Stop by today.

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13 May 2017 What You Might Not Know About Pianos

What You Might Not Know About Pianos

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Are you in the market for a new piano? Buying one is different than other purchases you make for your home. 

Take a kitchen appliance, for instance. Let’s say your dishwasher breaks, and you need a new one. You do a little research, find out what separates the makes and the brands, and then start picking out features that mean the most to you. Want a quiet dishwasher? Want one with multiple cycles for different loads? You can find several that will do the job quite nicely. What You Might Not Know About Pianos

When you bring it home and install it, the dishwasher works as promised. And it will continue to do so week after week, month after month, year after year. As long as it is well maintained, it will continue to the job similarly over and over again. 

That’s where the error occurs when people start shopping for a piano. 

A piano is a piano, right? But that assumption isn’t accurate. 

Because a piano is a living, breathing entity. It has a personality. It presents itself differently on any given day. 

Maybe it’s because the piano has around 12,000 working parts in it. Maybe it’s because so many different things affect how a piano works and sounds. 

Change the temperature in a room, and a piano can go flat or sharp.

When the air becomes dry, the sound can become brittle. 

Add a little humidity, and the sound can become muffled. 

But for most people, they don’t realize this when they start the search for a piano. 

Some people buy a piano sight unseen. When they load it up and take it home, is it any wonder it doesn’t sound quite right?

And if the sound isn’t there, why would you want to play it every day?

If you are in the market for a piano, get in and play it. Tap the keys. Play a scale. Tinker out a melody. And listen. 

Does it sound right to you? Do you connect with it? Can you see yourself making music together for years to come?

Only if the answer is yes is it time to buy. 

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