There are very few instruments that are as recognisable as the piano. Since it was invented in Italy around 300 years ago, it has continued to win over hearts. Owing to its versatility, ease of learning and the range it can cover, it is often referred to as the king of instruments and is the preferred choice for beginners. But if you are just starting on your musical journey, then choosing one can feel very confusing owing to the vast types of pianos available. To help you choose the best one for you, in this blog, we will dive into the different types of piano, their dimensions, and characteristics. This blog will give you a good insight into which piano will best suit your musical needs.
- Grand Piano
The grand piano is one of the most recognisable musical instruments. Due to its size and the quality of music it produces, it is often referred to as the serious musician’s piano. Grand pianos come in many different sizes, with the smallest one called ‘Baby Grand’ which is 4.5 feet in length. The largest of these can be as large as 9 feet and is aptly called the ‘Concert Grand’. Despite the brilliant sound, the grand concert piano requires significant space and is also very expensive. This makes it not very suitable for beginners who are suggested to begin with smaller pianos before progressing to the iconic device.
- Upright Piano
Since the grand piano is unfeasible for most without a big home, the upright piano is more popular in homes. They are designed vertically instead of horizontally like the grand piano, which saves a lot of floor space. They also sound just as authentic as its larger version but are not very loud, making them perfect for studios and schools as well.
- Digital Piano
The digital piano, also sometimes known as just the keyboard, is the electrical version of the acoustic piano. Although the sound it produces is a little different, its versatility and portability make it a fantastic choice for those seeking convenience. The first digital keyboard was created by Yamaha and it could also sample music or play pre-loaded background tunes. This made it popular among street performers and slowly became the go-to outdoor performance device.
- Hybrid piano
The hybrid piano, as its name suggests, helps combine the best of both worlds. Pressing the buttons feels just like an acoustic piano but the movements are digitally analysed and processed like a digital one. The hybrid piano thus becomes the perfect instrument for the digital world we live in today. Its dimensions can vary depending on the model, but it can be similar to uprights or grands.
These pianos can be perfect for those who want to have the feeling of acoustic experience but need the added benefits of modern technology. One added feature of the hybrid piano is that it has a silent mode when connected to headphones so that it can be enjoyed without disturbing anyone.
Choosing the right piano
With so many piano options available, it might get a bit tricky to choose the right instrument for you. Here are a few things to consider before choosing one:
- Skill Level
If you are just starting out with the piano, then it would be a good option to go for the digital or upright models. They are budget-friendly and easy to play, making them perfect for beginners and aspiring music enthusiasts.
- Space Availability
If you are living in a smaller area, then upright pianos or digital models can be an excellent choice. They don’t take up much room, and their sound level is suitable for smaller spaces. However, if you have a whole room to dedicate, then a grand piano can be a fantastic statement piece.
- Sound Preferences
Grand pianos are the best in sound. Their deep, beautiful tones are great for performances. But if you want to try out different sounds, digital pianos are great as you can play lots of different instrument sounds and control how loud it is. You can also go for a hybrid digital piano that lets you use headphones, so you can practise quietly without disturbing anyone around you.
- Budget
When thinking about buying a piano, keeping your budget in mind is important. If you’re starting out and have a limited budget then digital pianos and basic upright models are usually the most affordable. If you’re willing to spend a little more, then a mid-range upright or baby grand piano can be perfect for you. These options also offer better sound quality without breaking the bank.
- Portability
Lastly, one of the most crucial factors to consider when buying one is if and how you plan to move your piano around. Digital variants are generally lightweight and very easy to transport. However, for a more permanent location choose the grand piano.
Conclusion
Now that you have explored the different types of pianos and are also looking to learn different styles and techniques of playing the piano, then it is time to enrol in online piano lessons with us. We, at Artium Academy, have partnered with the king of the keys and our Piano faculty head, Louiz Banks who has developed a curriculum that can help you advance in your musical journey.
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