Thinking about buying a piano or keyboard, but worried about the costs involved? Here, Saint Augustine, FL teacher Heather L. shares her tips for keeping the price – and your stress level – down…
It’s no secret that pianos can be expensive. But for the right person, a piano can be a valuable addition to their home. If you’re interested in purchasing a piano, it’s important to understand the various ways you can finance your purchase and the different types of pianos available.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips for financing and purchasing a piano. We’ll also provide some information on different types of pianos and their associated prices.
So if you’re wondering whether or not you can afford to buy a piano, read on for more information!
How Do I Choose the Right Piano?
If you’re in the market for a piano, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind in order to choose the right one.
- First, consider what type of piano you’re looking for. Upright pianos are more compact and less expensive than grand pianos, making them a good choice for smaller homes or budget-minded buyers.
- If you’re a beginner, you may also want to consider an electronic keyboard, which is less expensive and easier to maintain than a traditional piano.
- Once you’ve decided on the type of piano you want, you’ll need to choose the right size. Upright pianos come in different sizes, from studio models that are just over four feet tall to console models that are nearly six feet tall. If you’re not sure which size is right for you, it’s always best to err on the side of too big rather than too small.
- Don’t forget to factor in the cost of maintaining your piano. Regular tuning and repairs can be costly, so be sure to factor that into your budget when choosing a piano and figuring out how to buy a piano.
By keeping these things in mind, you can be sure to choose the right piano for your needs. Ask your piano instructor for tips on what to look for – and check out the many other benefits of taking piano lessons by watching the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCtgL5C-e2M
How Much Should a Beginner Piano Cost?
A beginner piano can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. The size of the piano, the quality of the materials, and the brand all play a role in determining the price. For a beginner, it is important to find a piano that is comfortable to play and that produces a pleasing sound.
However, it is also important to consider the long-term value of the instrument. A piano that is made from high-quality materials and that has a good warranty will likely last for many years, making it a wise investment.
Ultimately, the best way to determine how much to spend on a beginner piano is to consult with a qualified music retailer who can help you find an instrument that meets your needs and budget.
Tips to Buy a Piano Near Me on a Budget
As a piano instructor, I meet many potential students and parents who are very interested in lessons for their family, but won’t sign up because they don’t have a piano or keyboard, or are concerned about piano prices. Don’t let this keep you from investing in music education! There are plenty of ways to get a great keyboard in your home.
1. Ask a trusted real estate agent.
This may sound strange, but real estate agents know a lot of people, close to where you live, who are moving and may be in desperate need of getting rid of a keyboard or a piano. The desperate need also often means opportunities to find lower piano prices!
2. Join www.Ebates.com, then shop online.
When you join Ebates and then shop online, you get cash back sent to your address in a quarterly check. Let’s say you find a great keyboard at Best Buy on sale for $300. The best idea is to go home, sign into Ebates.com, go to Best Buy’s website, and find that same keyboard online. If Ebates is offering 8% cash back that day, that means you’ll get $24 back!
3. Shop flea markets and antique shops.
My very first piano was given to me by my parents 20 years ago. They had found one at an old, but reputable antique store in a nearby town for $500. My parents were not certain that I’d stick with piano or keep it forever, but now, 20 years later, not only does the same piano sit in my parlor, but I’m teaching my daughter to play it as well. It’s still in great shape, even through several moves along the East coast.
4. Finance through a piano dealer.
If only a piano will do, then you’ll most likely have to finance one. Luckily, it’s not unlike financing a car. Check out piano shops in your area, as there are often in-house finance deals with pretty decent terms. You can expect a credit check and a 10% to 20% down payment with the piano serving as the collateral.
5. Finance through your bank or credit union.
Banks often offer the best finance terms and conditions. You could take out a home equity line of credit or a small personal loan. Rates will be fairly low for existing customers and will typically be fixed, so you won’t get any surprises like you might with a consumer credit card.
6. Inquire at a local music school.
Visit the front desk of your local performing arts center or small music store. Often, they’re given contact information from teachers and students who are ready to be piano- or keyboard-free. You could even try asking your kids’ school band, orchestra, or choir teacher!
If you’re in the market for a piano, then be sure to inspect the instrument inside and out, just as you would a car. Make sure there are no cracks or splits on the interior and that every key is easily played and sounds clear, not wobbly.
Most families need only a full-sized keyboard, without any of the bells and whistles, for their needs. Pianos are a beautiful investment, but one that is also made of expanding and contracting wood. This means annual or bi-annual tuning and regular maintenance. For some, like semi-professionals and advanced students, there is no substitute for one. But for most, especially those of us who perform and need to carry our keys around town, a keyboard is key!
Where Can I Buy a Piano?
Wondering where to buy a piano? You have a few options.
One of the most popular places to buy a piano is a music store. Music stores typically have a wide selection of pianos to choose from, and they often offer competitive prices.
Another option is to purchase a piano through a private seller. Private sellers may be willing to negotiate on price, and they may be more willing to sell their piano for less than the retail value.
Finally, it is also possible to find used pianos for sale online or in classified ads. Used pianos may be a more affordable option, but it is important to inspect the piano carefully before making a purchase.
Once you have decided where to buy your piano, the next step is to choose the right instrument for your needs.
Acoustic pianos are available in upright and grand models, and each type has its own unique features. Digital pianos are also available in a variety of styles, and they offer many different features that can be beneficial for beginners or experienced players alike. With so many options to choose from, it is important to take your time when shopping for a new piano.
By doing your research and taking your time, you can be sure to find the perfect piano for your home or studio.
What to Look For When Buying a Used Piano
When it comes to musical instruments, few are as classic or as popular as the piano. Pianos can be found in homes, schools, and performance venues around the world, and their unique sound has been used to create some of the most popular songs of all time. If you’re interested in adding a piano to your home, you may be considering purchasing a used one. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a used piano:
First, it’s important to consider the condition of the instrument. If you’re buying from an individual seller, be sure to inspect the piano thoroughly for any damage or wear and tear. If possible, have a professional pianist or technician take a look at it as well. It’s also important to consider the age of the piano; generally, older pianos will need more maintenance and care than newer ones.
Second, you’ll need to decide what type of piano you want. There are different types of pianos available on the market, including grand pianos, upright pianos, digital pianos, and more. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Finally, don’t forget to factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs. Pianos require regular tuning and maintenance in order to sound their best. Be sure to factor this into your budget when considering a used piano purchase.
By keeping these things in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect used piano for your home.
Is Buying a Piano Worth It?
For many people, the piano is more than just a musical instrument – it’s a passion. There’s something about the sound of the keys that just speaks to the soul, and learning to play can be a deeply satisfying experience.
Of course, pianos also come with a hefty price tag. So the question is, is buying a piano worth it?
Ultimately, the answer comes down to personal preference. For some people, the cost is simply too prohibitive. Others are willing to make the investment, knowing that they will get years of enjoyment out of their purchase. If you’re on the fence, there are a few factors to consider.
First, think about how often you plan to play. If you’re only an occasional player, you might be better off renting or borrowing a piano instead of purchasing one outright.
Second, consider your budget. Pianos range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s important to find one that fits your financial needs.
Finally, think about your space limitations. Pianos are large instruments, and they require a fair amount of room to store. If you live in a small apartment or home, you might want to reconsider buying a piano unless you have somewhere safe and convenient to keep it.
No matter what your budget is, there are options available to you when purchasing a piano. By considering all of your financing and purchase options, you can find the best deal for you and start playing the music that moves you.
Have you found the perfect piano yet? If not, keep looking- there’s one out there that will fit both your needs and your budget. Ask your piano teacher for suggestions!
Heather L. teaches singing, piano, acting, and more in Saint Augustine, FL, as well as through online lessons. She is a graduate of the prestigious Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey, and has performed with the New York and Royal Philharmonics, the New Jersey and Virginia Symphonies, the American Boy Choir, and the internationally renowned opera star, Andrea Bocelli. Learn more about Heather here!
Photo by Louise Lemettais
Suzy S.