For many hobbyists, the thought of playing the piano can be exciting. It can fulfill a childhood dream of making music. It can be a healthy pursuit as you age.
But if you’re intimidated by new piano prices, you might have turned to used pianos. Are they worth it? What should you know before you buy a used piano?
First, understand there are risks when buying anything used. If you’re purchasing from an individual based on a Craigslist ad, you could wind up with a piano with lots of problems. It’ll take a lot of money bringing it back up to working quality, and that can defeat the purpose of trying to get a “good deal.”
Buying a used piano doesn’t have to be scary. You can find great used pianos that will give you years of enjoyment. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you shop.
The lifespan of an acoustic piano
The average acoustic piano is designed to be playable for about 60 years. That means a piano sitting in the house of your grandmother since she was a little girl might have reached its peak. There are thousands of working parts inside, and any one of them can wear down or break over time. This is where it pays to know a piano’s backstory – was it well cared for, tuned regularly, and repaired and restored as needed?
Tuning is important
Often, pianos are left in a room forgotten as a family grows, interests change, and time marches on. Even if a piano isn’t used, it still needs regular maintenance to keep it operating well. Weather changes, climate and humidity changes, and other effects from normal living can all impact the different parts of a piano. Piano strings can pull or stretch even if you don’t play it regularly. Rust can form. Wood can warp and wear out. Keys stick, and the action can cause further damage. All of this is caught by regular tuning and maintenance. Without it, a piano can deteriorate quickly.
Not all brands are equal
Ford. Mercedes. Walmart. Gucci. One word can evoke different thoughts and impressions. It works with pianos too. Because pianos were once all the rage, a lot of manufacturers jumped in and tried to make a buck. Cheap imitations may have seemed like a good deal, but people quickly found out these pianos weren’t much better than toys. That also means they won’t hold their value over time, nor will they be quality instruments for you to practice on and enjoy as you learn to play. Stick with reputable pianos – this is where we can help you find a piano that will stand the test of time.
Moving a piano can be expensive
Sure, you can take the piano stored in a friend’s neighbor’s basement. All you have to do is move it. That’s where the real headache begins. A professional mover ensures the piano stays safe and the movers avoid risk. Pianos are heavy, bulky items that can’t be moved as easily as a sofa or table. Your friend’s neighbor might try and help you wedge it up the stairs and around corners. We ensure your used piano arrives safely in your home, a quality instrument ready for you to play.
