26 April 2014 Guide To Piano Brands

Guide To Piano Brands

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Ready to buy a piano for your home? Like many consumer products, its not as easy as choosing the first one you see. There are many brands on the market, each offering its own quality and innovation.

But if you are new to the piano world, how do you know which brand to choose? Is there a noticeable difference? Is there a difference that you or the person who will be playing the piano will notice?

Many people dream of owning a Steinway piano. They sit in some of the greatest concert halls across the world. But in no way is that the only piano manufacturer out there.Guide To Piano Brands

  • Wm. Knabe & Co.
  • Baldwin
  • Chickering
  • Samick
  • Kohler & Campbell
  • Kimball
  • Pramberger
  • Remington
  • Wurlitzer
  • Seiler
  • Conover Cable
  • Niemeyer

Before you get caught up in the brand, ask yourself what type of piano you would most use first. You can choose a digital piano or an acoustic piano. With acoustic pianos, you can have an upright or a grand.

With all piano choices, your two most important factors will be sound and space.

Grand pianos take up the most space, and will need a fairly large square footage for its final resting spot. Uprights are meant to be placed by a wall and will take much less square footage than its grand counterpart.

If you have even less space, a digital piano gives you flexibility of being able to move your piano in an easier fashion.

Sound will ultimately depend on the style of piano chosen, and the quality of the manufacturing process.

Each of the brands provides its own quality and can provide you with years of enjoyment. By choosing a reputable dealer with many different styles, brands and selections, you can quickly learn what the difference is, and narrow your choices to select the perfect piano for you and your family. We welcome you to our store today.

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12 April 2014 The Ultimate Guide To Digital Pianos

The Ultimate Guide To Digital Pianos

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Sometimes an acoustic piano simply won’t work.

Maybe your child is just as interested in football as he is in becoming the next famous rock star. Do you really want a serious investment in something that he might drop in a year? Or maybe your child is off to college soon, and there is no way he can practice his new-found skill by bringing an upright or grand piano with him.

What matters most is size, portability and space – and the best sound possible that goes with it.The Ultimate Guide To Digital Pianos

That’s why digital pianos are a welcome addition to the piano world.

Digital pianos aren’t like their electric keyboard counterparts – remember the 44 key Casio keyboards from yesteryear? Though they may have had some resemblance to a piano, they sounded or acted nothing like it.

Today’s digital pianos feature fully weighted keys to mimic the functionality of an acoustic piano, have life-like reverb effects, and have sound that compares to some of the most beautiful grand pianos in the world.

What should you look for in your in the market for a digital piano?

Always stick with the standard 88 key setup. You will find cheaper, lower quality pianos with lower key counts, but they may limit your playing of some songs. And while there are pianos with more keys, outside of a true professional that understands how to use them, you’ll probably never use the additional keys anyway.

In our world, more is always better, right? Hundreds of instruments. Thousands of unique sounds. It sounds like a dream; something you just have to have. Its important to note that more sounds don’t lead to higher quality. And for most players, they simply will never use even a fraction of those sounds anyway. Focus on quality. Does it have a rich sound? Sound is what is important, not how many bells and whistles it has.

Polyphony is the number of individual notes a digital piano can produce at one time. If you’ve ever played a small child’s keyboard toy, when you hit multiple notes at once, you’ll only hear one sound coming out – not a smooth chord with multiple rich notes at one time. This keyboard would have a polyphony of one. To have an efficient digital piano, anything less than 32 note simply won’t give you the tone to make music with. 64 is considered acceptable; 128 is typically best.

Touch is also an important feature, and one that easily tricks parents who don’t play the piano themselves when it comes time to buy one for their kids. Its easy to be swayed by lights and dials, and ratings based on marketing rather than performance. To truly learn how to play the piano, the piano must act like a piano to transfer the skills from one type to the next. Touch response comes from being able to press down on a key and feeling a building resistance as the hammer strikes the piano’s strings to make a sound. When keys are weighted correctly, it imitates the feel of an acoustic piano, meaning your skills are easily transferred from one to the next, and the proper performance can be achieved by playing by feel.

Still have questions? Come in today. We would love to help you experience all a digital piano can provide.

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3 April 2014 Piano Accessories for Improving Your Piano Performance

Piano Accessories for Improving Your Piano Performance

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Playing the piano takes a lot of practice and dedication. With patience and time, you can greatly improve your piano performance. However, you need certain accessories in order to accomplish your piano playing goals.

Here is a list of some piano accessories you will need in order to improve your piano performance and protect your investment:

Bench– While consumer-grade pianos usually come with their own benches, performance-grade pianos are usually sold separately. If you are looking for comfort, padded benches are a good choice. Benches will solid tops last longer, but they are susceptible to scratching. Bench cushions are also available for solid tops. You can also purchase an adjustable bench if multiple people in your family will be playing on a regular basis.Piano Accessories for Improving Your Piano Performance

Lamp– Playing the piano requires lighting that allows you to read the music without shadows. This is when a piano lamp comes in handy. You can get a floor model or a desk version, and of course there are all kinds of sizes and styles. Fluorescent lamps will result in a softer and less harsh light that will suffice for your piano playing.

String covers– These are highly recommended for grand pianos, and come in many different colors. Wool string covers protect the strings from dust. Simply place the fabric over the sound board and strings when not in use.

Cover– Have a lot of action in the area where your piano resides? You’ll want to protect your investment by covering your piano. There are many piano covers available to protect its finish. They come in many sizes to fit your particular piano, and are available in water-resistant fabrics.

Caster cups– Placed under the wheels of grand and vertical piano, caster cups protect your carpeting and floor. They are available in plastic, wood, and in clear acrylic that allows the carpet or hardwood floor to show through.

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22 March 2014 What’s The Difference Between Grand And Baby Grand Pianos?

What’s The Difference Between Grand And Baby Grand Pianos?

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One of most prized possessions in many homes across America is their piano. And usually when a home is ready to showcase their piano, they move to the grand piano class.

The most obvious difference between what we call a baby grand and a “regular” grand piano is the size. Sizes typically range like this:What’s The Difference Between Grand And Baby Grand Pianos?

Concert Grand – 9 to 10 feet

Semiconcert – 7 to 8 feet

Parlor – 6’3” to 6’10”

Professional Grand – 6 feet

Medium Grand – 5’6” to 5’8”

Baby Grand – 4’11” to 5’6”

Petite Grand – 4’5” to 4’10”

With size change also comes a variety of other changes as well.

A grand piano’s voice comes from the strings, soundboard, and the quality and workmanship of these parts. The longer the string, the more frequency to resonate from a larger surface area, the more balanced and full bodied the tone.

The smaller the grand piano, the more exaggerated the voice can be, with varying dynamics from octave to octave. For tonal superiority, most pianists look for a full grand, 5’7” or greater when making their final selection.

Cost is often a deciding factor when it comes to selecting a grand piano. Remember, grand pianos are an investment that holds value over time. New and used grand pianos tend to stay in the same price range because of their longevity. Talk with a reputable dealer to find the perfect piano for you.

If you opt for the baby grand because of price, aim for the longest model possible. Some baby grands are mass produced because of the strong desire, and therefore won’t provide the overall sound qualities you are looking for.

Make sure your piano room will have desired moisture and room temperatures. These elements are especially dangerous to grand pianos because of their revealing lids.

And finally, remember that grand pianos take up a large amount of space – around 63 square feet. Make sure you take into consideration doorways and stairwells when measuring your room. And don’t forget to add another two to four feet of space for the bench.

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19 March 2014 Shopping For An Electric Keyboard

Shopping For An Electric Keyboard

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Whether you’re an experienced instructor, or brand new to the world of electric keyboards, there are many things to consider before you invest.

Do you need the latest technology? Shopping For An Electric Keyboard

In many ways, electric keyboards are a lot like the latest in computer or tablet design. The manufacturers add all kinds of “bells and whistles” to make their products stand out from the year before.

Do you need this latest technology?

If you’re experienced and use every new sound and option available, then you’ll probably be anticipating the newest release. If however you’re new to the keyboard world, you my not have enough experience to appreciate all it has to offer. And in many cases, it can be a huge distraction to trying to learn all that even a basic keyboard has to offer.

Work with an experienced piano dealer to choose a keyboard that matches your abilities, without leaving you in complete overwhelm.

What keyboard size is best for you?

A standard keyboard has 88 keys. However, electric keyboards come in three different sizes.

76 keys – A good choice for a beginner as you won’t need the full 88 keyboard

61 keys – Another good choice for a beginner, a great practice piano for all skill levels

49 keys – The smallest standard size, and not ideal for everyday use. May be a good place to start, though you will probably outgrow its features within the first year

Do you need extra speakers?

While most of the keyboards on the market today have speakers built into their bodies, its good to check out the sound before you leave the store. Does it provide you with good enough sound quality for your practice sessions? If not, investing in an external set of speakers may give you higher quality sound and make your practicing more enjoyable.

Do you need foot pedals?

Why are you learning piano? If you ever hope to play a full sized piano some day, you should begin training your feet as well as your hands now.

Many keyboards can connect up to an external pedal source. By investing in the standard three pedal platform, you’ll be able to learn all functionality of the piano right from the beginning.

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6 February 2014 10 Steps To Finding The Best Piano Dealer In Memphis

10 Steps To Finding The Best Piano Dealer In Memphis

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Step #1 What are your needs?

Before you ever start looking at pianos, its important to assess your needs first. What is your primary reason for wanting a piano? Is it for a child beginning lessons for the first time? Or is to take up an old hobby and combine your love for piano and the computer? There is a difference between acoustic and digital pianos – knowing what your primary desires are will start leading you in the right direction.10 Steps To Finding The Best Piano Dealer In Memphis

Step #2 Where will the piano go?

Do you want to make a statement with a large grand piano in your formal living space? Or are you short on space and would love to have a more portable piano you can move when you need to? Pianos come in all shapes and sizes, so its important to get one that fits into your lifestyle.

Step #3 What is your budget?

Pianos come in all shapes and sizes. They also come in all price ranges. New. Used. Top of the line. Antique. With so many choices, its important to establish how much you are willing to spend before focusing in on which piano is the perfect match for you.

Step #4 New or used?

In many cases a used can offer you just as much as a new. When you purchase used from a reputable dealer, they know the history or the piano, they’ve refurbished or repaired it, and can offer you guarantees on future performance. Or if you decide on a new piano, you may get top technology that offer you lots of opportunity in the future.

Step #5 Where to look?

Mention you are in the market for a piano and you’ll probably find lots of choices appearing all around you. But is a friend of a friend who has an old piano in the garage really the best place to shop for something like a piano? Pianos will only be as good as the upkeep and maintenance they’ve had in the past. And when you aren’t sure, you may be trying to make beautiful music with something that just isn’t up for the job anymore. Reputation is everything when it comes to buying a piano.

Step #6 What questions should you ask?

The longer a piano dealer has been in business, the more history he or she has with the industry, the more knowledge they can provide you. Where can I get sheet music? Who should I rely on for piano lessons? Whatever questions you have, they should always have an answer close at hand.

Step #7 Stay open minded

While its important to go into it with some idea of what you want and need, keep an open mind as well. Once a piano consultant hears what your needs are, he may point you in a slightly different direction; one that will be even better to suit your needs.

Step #8 What about delivery?

Will you be required to move the piano from its current location to your home by yourself? Or do they provide piano delivery service? Moving a piano is different than moving any other type of furniture, so make sure you have the support you need to get the job done the right way.

Step #9 What’s the history?

If a piano is used, what is its history? How old is it? Where has it been kept of stored? How well has it been maintained? If someone can’t tell you its history, chances are it wasn’t that good.

Step #10 What should you do in the future?

When should you consider upgrading? How often should your piano be tuned? A reputable piano dealer will be able to advise you on how to take care of your new piano purchase now and years into the future.

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29 January 2014 The Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Piano

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Piano

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The decision to purchase a piano is a big one. Buying a piano means that you are making a commitment and investment that is long-term. Because of this, you want to get the most out of your money and commitment by buying the best piano for you.

It’s no secret that pianos can be expensive. Pianos are never something you buy today and sell in a garage sale tomorrow. Instead, like a great piece of furniture, it is meant to be a loving addition to your home, giving your home style and class for years to come.

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Used PianoBecause pianos offer longevity, in addition to being able to purchase a new one, you also have the option of purchasing used. If you are looking to purchase a used piano, you need to identity your needs as well as other factors. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of buying a used piano:

Pros of buying a used piano

  • Price- One of the biggest advantages of buying a used piano is a lower price upfront. In many cases you can buy a higher level of piano and still stick with your budget.
  • Rebuilding options- Some used pianos can even be rebuilt to provide the latest in piano technology.
  • A good used piano’s voice ages well- The timbre of a well-kept piano evolves over time.

Cons of buying a used piano

  • Used pianos don’t have warranties- While you save money buying a used piano, it doesn’t come with the peace of mind in the form of a manufacturer’s warranty. Especially if you buy from a homeowner rather than a dealer, your purchase will be “as is”.
  • Hidden problems may exist- Be sure to check for common signs of piano damage, as some people who are selling used pianos did not take care of them properly over the years.
  • Used pianos are susceptible to mold- Room conditions can leave a used piano prone to mold and bacteria growth, which can be harmful to your health.

While it may be tempting to answer the ad in the classified section and get a great deal, consider your options carefully. A professional piano dealer will only sell you the best used pianos available. They will make sure they are well tuned, in great shape, and will still have a lot of life to give as you play it in the coming years. Can the owner in the classified ad guarantee that?

Remember, you want to get the most out of your piano investment. So carefully consider the pros and cons according to your particular situation, and you’ll make the decision that’s right for you!

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18 January 2014 Buying Used Pianos In Memphis Tennessee

Buying Used Pianos In Memphis Tennessee

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Depending on the style of piano you are looking for, a used piano may be a perfect option for you.

But if you don’t understand the process for buying a used piano, you may wind up with a piano that is anything but quality.

We know. As a piano dealer in the Memphis Tennessee area with over 50 years in the business, we’ve experienced just about everything when it comes to pianos. We truly do know the good and the bad.

Buying Used Pianos In Memphis TennesseeWhen you come into our store, we have a large selection of new, used and vintage pianos. And if you’re looking for something particular, we can help you find it. With more than 50 years in the business, we know the places to look and the people to call when it comes to finding the perfect piano for you.

Typically when people its time to buy a piano, they make two mistakes.

1. They shop by price.

2. They shop for today.

And its easy to fall into both of these traps. Maybe you have a child that expresses interest in playing piano. You don’t want to make a huge investment until you know whether he will continue or not. So you look for the “cheapest” piano you can get with the intention of “upgrading” when he practices and decides he likes the piano over time.

This is the quickest path to failure.

The cheapest piano you can find may be of poor quality, out of tune, and overall difficult to gain musicality from. A piano that isn’t designed to improve and have quality performance as your child expands limits his abilities right from the start. If your child can’t hear the music and tone he’s making, he won’t want to continue.

There is another way.

There are many used pianos that are excellent quality and offer you options when helping your child be all he can be.

We only purchase quality used pianos when we know the story behind it and can refurbish or repair it to an excellent condition. When you take home a used piano, rest assured it can provide you with years of top quality service. And give your child the opportunity to be the best musician he can be.

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15 January 2014 8 Questions To Ask Before Buying A Piano In Memphis Tennessee

8 Questions To Ask Before Buying A Piano In Memphis Tennessee

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Ready to buy a piano? Then you must know the most important questions to ask the person you are considering buying the piano from, right?

No?

8 Questions To Ask Before Buying A Piano In Memphis TennesseeBefore you head out shopping for your next piano here in the Memphis Tennessee area, keep these questions close and be ready to listen for the “right” answers.

How long have you been in the piano business?

Is there a difference between someone selling a used piano because they no longer want it in their home, and someone who has been in the piano business right here in Memphis for over 50 years? We think so. It all comes down to trust and making sure you get the best value for your money.

What do you know about pianos?

In order to sell you the right piano for your needs, we believe you should talk to someone that understands everything there is to know about pianos, from digital to acoustic, from new to used.

What do you know about this piano?

How old is this piano? Has it been maintained properly over the years? Just because a piano hasn’t been played in awhile doesn’t mean it doesn’t need proper maintenance and upkeep.

How does this piano compare to others like it?

Do you know the difference between digital and acoustic, uprights versus grand pianos? Many private owners don’t either. If they have one piano or a very limited selection for you to choose from, they can never give you the pros and cons of every type of piano on the market today.

How often has it been tuned (if its used or vintage)?

In order for a piano to play properly, it needs routine tuning. Does the person you are buying from have a journal to show you the maintenance schedule? Was it tuned by someone who knows how to tune?

How do I move the piano from this location to my home?

Once you decide on a piano, how will you move it from the location you are purchasing it from to the final resting spot in your home? Do the people moving it know how to move a piano properly?

How should I maintain my piano once its in my home?

This question can give you insight into how well the piano has been kept up until now. If you are dealing with a private owner or someone with only a small selection of pianos, they might not have the background needed to understand maintenance. If they can’t tell you how to maintain the piano in the future, chances are it hasn’t been maintained properly until now.

How can you support me in the coming years?

A reputable piano company understands that things always change. Your piano needs tuning and repair as the years pass by. At times you may want to move your piano from one room to another, or even from one home to another. If they know pianos, they can offer help with tuning, moving, even finding the perfect piano teacher for you.

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20 December 2013 Giving The Gift Of A Piano

Giving The Gift Of A Piano

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Are you looking to buy a piano for someone this year? Well, you still have time to buy one and get it tuned and ready to play before the big day!

Here are some tips to help you buy a piano for someone special:

First, remember that your recipient will be playing, looking and enjoying their piano for a long time. Since the average lifespan of a piano is about 40 years, they are sure to enjoy this beautiful gift throughout much of their life. Make sure it fits their needs, and is something that can be incorporated into their current lifestyle and surroundings – a grand piano may not be the best choice for an urban dweller with 900 square feet of space.

Giving The Gift Of A PianoPianos hold their value for years to come. A used piano built 10 years ago and maintained well will cost almost as much as a comparable new piano. Keep this in mind when choosing a piano for someone.

Price and size do not reflect tone and quality. Each piano is unique and will give you different results. What are your expectations for the future? Will the recipient be playing classical music for the symphony, or writing pop music and using technology to its highest degree? Be sure to talk with the sales team and express the recipients interests before you make your final selection.

Buying a piano is only part of the process. Where will the piano be placed? Rely on professional movers to place the piano in its final destination. And once its in place, it will need to be maintained on a regular basis, which means tuning as it settles in to its new environment.

Not sure how to give the gift of a piano? There are actually several ways to go about it.

  • Work with the recipient to determine the best piano for his or her situation. You can present the gift, then come into our location to help them make the final selection.
  • Surprise them with a purchase. We can set it up anywhere you choose.
  • Or somewhere in between. Keep the surprise in place, and visit our location after to choose the best piano for the recipient.

Which ever way you choose, your gift will be treasured for a lifetime.

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