Do I really need a piano at home?

Do I really need a piano at home to take lessons? Can we just try out lessons for a few months before purchasing a piano? I'm not sure I have space for a piano!

These are some common concerns from parents. Purchasing a piano is a major investment for parents who are unsure if their child will continue with the instrument. I wish I could say that practice at home was not needed but in order for your child to feel successful and enjoy their lessons or classes, they need access to a piano between lessons. Many students who are unable to practice feel frustrated after the first few months because they are not able to properly progress.

I do understand that pianos are very expensive and many homes do not have the space for one. Many of my students practice at another location like a grandparent's house or friend's house. A portable keyboard is also an option for beginning students. If you choose a keyboard, be sure that it has at least 61 full sized keys. It will also need an adapter and a stand so that your child will not be huddled on the floor to practice. Touch sensitive keys are also preferable so that your child can practice playing loud and soft dynamics. Your keyboard does not need to have a lot of buttons or be able to "teach" your child a song. The most important aspect of a keyboard is the size of keys, touch sensitivity and the number of keys (the more the better.) A full sized digital piano is the best option other than an acoustic piano. They feel and sound like a "real" piano but are more portable and affordable than a new piano. They also never need to be tuned. Costco, Best Buy and even Toysrus sometimes have great deals on keyboards and digital pianos.

A used piano is also an option. Ellis piano in Hoover usually has a good selection of used pianos for not much more than an electric keyboard. View Ellis piano websiteYou can always resell a piano if your child eventually moves on to another activity.

If you are interested in music classes for your child but not ready to make the commitment to piano, consider ABC Music and Me for 4 to 6 year olds. ABC Music and Me is a music enrichment program created by Kindermusik International that incorporates an introduction to piano, exposure to music from other cultures, music history and movement activities. ABC Music and Me is perfect for a family with a child who is just starting to show interest in piano but not ready to make the commitment to piano classes or lessons. The most important thing to consider, is your child's enjoyment and success. Be sure that you set your child up for success in whatever activity in which they show interest.

Be sure to come to our free Kindermusik and piano classes to try out a class and see what is a good fit for your child. More demo class info on my website