Have a child that wants to make music? Ready to invest in a piano?

For many parents today, the first decision starts with what piano to buy. Is it better to go with an acoustic piano, more traditional in nature? Or is it better to go with a digital piano, and add the power of electronics to the possibilities?

As with most decisions, there is no right or wrong choice.

You should consider a digital piano if:

• You have limited space. While an 88 key digital piano is about the same width as an acoustic piano, where the digital begins to save space is in the depth.
• You want to limit the sound and have your child be able to practice silently. If you invest in any quality digital piano, it will have the option of a headphone jack for silent play. This can be a great option especially when living in tight quarters, such as with other family members around practicing or doing homework, or in apartment or dorm room settings.
• You want access to more sounds than just the piano. With a digital piano, you can produce many other sounds – guitar, saxophone, trumpet, violins – all with the touch of a button.
• You want to transpose keys instantly. This can be a great function when working with other musicians or singers, and they have a desire to drop the key of the song.
• You want something portable and stowable. Digital pianos weigh a fraction of what an acoustic piano weighs. And if you don’t have room for it, you can simply pack it up and stow it away.
• You want a piano with minimum maintenance. Digital pianos never require tuning, and aren’t overly sensitive to the elements, such as high or low temperatures, or high humidity situations. Electronic failures are uncommon, but keep in mind that they can be debilitating when they happen.

You should consider an acoustic piano if:

• You are a beginner and want to develop good technique. Most teachers will have their students learn on an acoustic piano because of the different technique involved.
• You want a real piano sound. As much as a digital piano can copy the sound of an acoustic piano, the only way to get the real thing is to play an acoustic piano.
• You want a multi-generational heirloom. A good acoustic piano will always have more value than a digital piano. When you think of playing in a classic concert hall, or imagine adding ambiance to your home with a piano, its always with an acoustic piano. They’ve been passed down from generation to generation, and will continue to do so.
• You desire the classic piano look. Nothing says quality and class more than having a grand piano in the middle of the room.
• You desire a beautiful piece of furniture. Acoustic pianos come in a variety of woods and compliment any décor.