top of page

Do I Need to Buy a Piano for Piano Lessons?

Embarking on a journey to learn how to play the piano is an exciting and fulfilling endeavour. It can bring joy, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment to your life. However, as you explore into the world of piano lessons, a common question that we get asked is: Do I need to buy a piano for piano lessons? In this blog, we'll explore the factors to consider when making this decision and provide guidance on whether purchasing a piano is the right choice for you.


Here are the four things you need to consider before buying a piano for your piano lessons.


1. The Importance of Practice


Before we delve into the question of purchasing a piano, it's essential to understand the significance of practice in learning to play the piano. Like any skill, progress in piano playing is directly correlated with the amount and quality of practice you put in. Regular practice sessions allow you to develop muscle memory, finger dexterity, and a deep understanding of music theory.


Here at CG Piano Studios, we're all about tailoring your practice to your skill level and aspirations. For beginners, we encourage a sweet and manageable 10 minutes of daily practice, while if you're more advanced, aim for a delightful 30-minute daily piano practice!

2. Types of Pianos


When considering whether to buy a piano, it's crucial to understand the various types available:


Acoustic Piano: Acoustic pianos, whether upright or grand, offer an authentic and rich piano-playing experience. They are ideal for serious piano students due to their superior sound and touch sensitivity. However, they can be expensive and require regular maintenance, tuning, and space.


Digital Piano: Digital pianos are versatile instruments that come in various price ranges. They offer realistic piano sounds and weighted keys that mimic the feel of an acoustic piano. Many digital pianos also have headphone jacks, making them great for quiet practice. They are a popular choice for beginners.


Keyboard: Keyboards are typically more affordable and portable than acoustic and digital pianos. They are a reasonable starting point for beginners who want to explore piano lessons without a significant financial commitment. However, they may lack the nuanced touch of a piano and can limit your growth as a pianist.


What's our top recommendation?

Here at CG Piano Studios, we strongly advise beginners to start with a digital piano. It's the ideal choice for building finger dexterity right from the start. Keyboards, on the other hand, are not our first choice due to their soft touch, which doesn't quite replicate the authentic feel of a piano.

Learning piano is a significant investment, and having the right equipment makes all the difference in your musical journey.



3. Considerations for Beginners


If you're a beginner considering piano lessons, here are some factors to keep in mind:


a. Budget: Your budget plays a significant role in determining whether you should buy a piano. Acoustic pianos tend to be more expensive, while keyboards and digital pianos offer cost-effective alternatives.


b. Commitment Level: Assess how committed you are to learning the piano. If you're unsure about your dedication, starting with a keyboard or digital piano is a sensible choice. You can always upgrade as you progress.


c. Space: Consider the space available in your home. Acoustic pianos require a dedicated area, while digital pianos and keyboards are more space-efficient.


d. Noise Considerations: If noise is a concern, digital pianos often come with headphone jacks, allowing you to practice silently.



4. The Role of a Piano Coach


Another critical factor to consider is whether you plan to take piano lessons with a piano coach or pursue self-learning through online resources. A good piano coach can guide you on the type of instrument that best suits your goals and can even provide recommendations.


At CG Piano Studios, we provide a trial lesson to give you the opportunity to experience our studio before making a commitment. This initial lesson allows both you and the coach to establish a connection before deciding to enrol. This is ideal if you or your children wish to explore various piano schools or instructors before making a commitment.


Conclusion


In summary, the answer to the question “Do I need to buy a piano for piano lessons” is yes. Though the decision to buy a piano for piano lessons depends on various factors, including your budget, commitment level, available space, and noise considerations.


While we recommend acoustic pianos as they offer a premium playing experience, digital pianos are more practical options for beginners. Ultimately, the most important thing is to start your piano journey and practice regularly, regardless of the instrument you choose. As you progress and become more confident in your commitment, you can always consider upgrading to a more advanced piano. The joy of making music and the sense of accomplishment you gain from learning to play the piano will make the journey worthwhile, no matter which instrument you begin with.


bottom of page