Finding a Piano or Keyboard

Wanting to try piano lessons, but not sure where to look for an instrument?
 
Here are a few thoughts about finding a piano. They go in order from most expensive to least expensive.
 
There are digital keyboards and pianos, acoustic-digital hybrids, and acoustic pianos. Students should get acoustic pianos when possible. Digitals and Hybrids may be cheaper and require less upkeep. They also stop working sooner and have little to no resale value.
 
Investing in an acoustic piano is a wise move. Local stores like O’Neill’s Music in Baton Rouge may offer financing. Trusted brands such as Yamaha occasionally run 0% financing campaigns and other limited-time deals. Yamaha uprights start at $5,000. With 0% financing, a $5,000 piano would be around $150 per month for 4 years or less than $225 per month for 2 years.
To save money, you might check your local piano stores for used instruments. Read these articles first:

Used pianos in trustworthy music stores tend to be in better shape and may even come with a guarantee. Don’t be shy to ask for details when it comes to making such an important purchase.

 
Expect to pay at least $2,000 for a used piano.
Baton Rouge piano lessons for kids

If your used piano doesn’t come with a bench you’ll need to buy your own.
 
Any bench should work well for adults, but you may prefer one with adjustable height or room to store sheet music inside it. An adjustable bench is preferable for children.

If your budget is tight, a digital piano like the Casio PX-770, Korg B2SP, or a keyboard like the Yamaha P-45 will do to start. Make sure whatever you buy has a full keyboard with 88 weighted keys. If ordering a keyboard, make sure it comes with pedals, or buy pedal attachments separately.

If you’re comfortable on Craigslist, Amazon, eBay & Reverb.com you can sometimes find a piano for around $200. It can cost around $300 to hire a piano mover, but worth it unless you have strong helpers, moving straps, and a truck.
 
Condition varies, so you might have to pay restoration costs to get it into shape. Be especially cautious when ordering a used piano in a flood-prone area like South Louisiana.
 
Whether you go with a new or used piano, expect to work with a tuner. A used piano may require multiple trips within the first few months for retuning and repairs. 
 
 
 
Children may need a footstool and possibly a cushion or phone book to sit on.
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