This is a brief discussion of my advice for those of you with someone in the family who already plays the piano –
- Determine your budget.
- Determine the size limitations of the space where the piano will be located.
- Determine your color and style preferences.
- Determine any other features that you want.
IGNORE THE BRAND* and look for pianos that meet the criteria from the list above. As you try these pianos, continue to IGNORE THE BRAND*, have the piano player play the piano and check for the following:
- Do you like the sound of this piano?
- Do you like the feel of this piano?
- Does it respond to your touch the way you want it to?
- Will it play softly the way you want it to?
- Will it play loudly the way you want it to?
- Do all of the keys and pedals work properly?
If it passes all these tests, consider it. If not, move on.
Now, narrow the list of pianos you are considering.
If you have narrowed the list to two or three pianos, it may be time to consider the brand. A well known brand may retain its value better than a lesser know brand. So if there is little difference in price, it may be wise to choose the better know brand.
- Buying from a dealer may cost a little more, but the dealer usually includes:
- Delivery
- The first tuning
- Warranty
- Buying from an individual:
- Remember to allow for the cost of moving the piano.
- Allow for the cost of the first tuning
- Be aware that any needed repairs will be done at your expense
If there is ANY doubt about the condition or quality of the piano, have a technician check it. This may cost a little bit, but it can save a lot later on. I’ve had to tell many customers that repairing their bargain piano will cost more than the piano is worth.
Consider the motives of anyone who offers advice (either free or for a fee). Ask them if they benefit in any way for leading you to buy from any specific dealer or person. Many of these people receive a fee for getting you to buy from such a dealer. Others simply get extra business for influencing you.
* Why I stress IGNORE THE BRAND – First, no two pianos are the same. Even “identical” pianos will sound and play differently. Second, many people will try to convince you that you should only consider a certain brand of piano. That brand may be a very good brand and it may delight the person giving the advice. But there are other good pianos available, and what you value in a piano may not be the same as what the other person values. If you concentrate your search on one or two brands, you may overlook other pianos that would delight you. And these other pianos may be available at a much lower cost
For a detailed discussion, search for Larry Fine’s piano book. You can buy a copy or you can read it online for free.