The piano is the most popular starting instrument in the world, and a common question we receive from students is how to select the right instrument. This query often comes from beginners who have yet to play, as well as from students returning to the instrument after many years. We hope this brief guide helps you make an informed decision as you start or continue your musical journey!

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Buying a Keyboard

Purchasing a keyboard as a music student offers clear advantages for beginners and intermediates. Here are some benefits:

  • Less expensive
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Headphone compatibility- allows for practice without disturbing others

At Angeles Academy, we typically advise first-time parents and students to start with a keyboard. This allows them to begin lessons and develop important skills like practicing before investing in a more expensive piano.

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Here are our top keyboard recommendations for students, with purchase links:

Weighted vs. Non-Weighted Keys

Lower-end keyboards usually have non-weighted keys, which are easier to press than those on an acoustic piano. This can be fine for a beginner, but if the student becomes more serious or if the budget allows, it's better to consider a weighted or semi-weighted keyboard. However, we don’t believe a new student should be discouraged from starting lessons if a weighted keyboard or real piano isn’t within budget.

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Dealer vs. Private Party

Since keyboards are relatively inexpensive, we don’t advise students to seek private party deals. Purchasing through Amazon or reputable dealers is often the safest route when it comes to electronics.

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Buying an Acoustic Piano

Budget Considerations:

For average budgets, we recommend a used Yamaha or Kawai piano, as a solid student instrument that also retains value reasonably well. We suggest looking for uprights no older than the 1980s, and preferably from the 1990s or newer.

For higher budgets, options include new or high-end Yamaha and Kawai models, as well as Steinway and Fazioli pianos.

  • For a decent upright piano, expect to pay between $2,500-$3,500.
  • For a good grand piano expect to pay between $5,000-$12,000

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Grand vs. Upright Pianos

Uprights are generally less expensive, but grand pianos often offer advantages. With longer strings, they tend to produce a richer, more resonant sound, especially in the lower registers, and they can provide superior dynamic control and detail. That said, the average music student, even at an intermediate to advanced level, may do just fine with a good upright. Other considerations when purchasing a grand piano include space and aesthetics; many families and students desire a grand piano for its visual appeal alone.

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Purchasing a Piano Through a Private Party

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Advantages:

  • Potential a much better price, especially if the seller is in a hurry.
  • Possibility for more room for negotiation.

Disadvantages:

  • Requires more time, research, and knowledge.
  • Private parties may price too high and not understand the value.

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What We Look For

Angeles Academy buys upright pianos for its locations, and it’s possible to find a private seller offering a high-quality Yamaha or Kawai upright for $2,000-$3,500. This is a good price for these pianos if they are newer and in great condition. When shopping through private parties, we recommend using:

Tips for Buying a Piano from a Private Party:

  • Check the seller's profile to ensure they’re not a dealer posing as an individual.
  • Request the serial number and look it up to determine the instrument's age and value:
  •  For Kawai: [Kawai Piano Serial Numbers](https://www.thepianoshopbath.co.uk/kawai-pianos/kawai-piano-serial-numbers/)
  •  For Yamaha: [Yamaha Piano Age Guide](https://usa.yamaha.com/support/finding_age_of_yamaha_piano/index.html)
  • Inspect the instrument for rust, especially on the tuning pins and strings.
  • Test every key and pedal to ensure they’re functioning properly.
  • Carefully examine the case for scratches or other damage.

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Have the Piano Evaluated by an Expert

Many piano tuning services will inspect a piano you’re considering buying to ensure it’s well-priced and in good condition. They can also provide repair quotes if needed. The fee is nominal and often worth it. We recommend:

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Purchasing a Piano Through a Dealer

A reputable dealer offers the advantage of not needing to inspect the piano in detail yourself, and you can trust the quality of the instruments. A dealer that has been around for decades will typically curate a collection of high-quality instruments.

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Advantages of Working with a Dealer:

  • Multiple instruments in one place make it easy to compare pricing, sound, and appearance.
  • Pianos tend to be of a uniformly higher standard, whereas private sellers may offer instruments in poorer condition.

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Disadvantages:

  • Dealers may be more expensive compared to private parties due to business costs.

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Our Recommended Dealers:

  • Pierre's Fine Pianos - Offers a range of used and new instruments from the highest end to affordable instruments for families. ‍
  • Steinway & Sons – Ask for David Ida, Specializes in new Steinway and Essex pianos, high-end options.

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Piano Maintenance

Maintaining a real piano is crucial for its long-term value and to ensure the student gets the most out of the instrument. Tuning a piano typically costs between $120-$250, depending on the tuner. We currently recommend:

Want to learn more about our piano lessons?

Angeles Academy of Music offers the largest selection of Piano Instructors in Los Angeles, with over 50 piano teachers on staff. We offer a diversity of instructors such as Juiliard graduates who are perfect for advancing a career in music, to warm music education graduates who are the perfect fit for a four year old just starting out. In addition to all levels, we have instructors who specialize in Jazz, Classical, and Pop styles. Please more about our Piano Lessons here

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