Buying a piano

Digital, acoustic or silent?

A digital piano is the easiest place to start: it never needs tuning, can be played on headphones and takes little space. Always choose 88 weighted keys with hammer action, so the hand learns the right resistance from day one.

An acoustic piano gives the richest sound and the most living contact between finger and tone – but it needs tuning, space and neighbours who like music.

A silent piano is a real acoustic piano that can also be played silently on headphones. For many adults in flats, it is what makes practice actually happen.

For children

Children learn with their fingers and arms, not with buttons. Keys with real resistance, a bench at the right height and a piano that stands open in the living room matter more than sounds and features.

Try before you buy

• Sit properly first – elbows level with the keys.
• Play very softly. The difference between pianos shows in pianissimo.
• Repeat the same note quickly and feel whether the key comes back willingly.
• After five minutes, notice your shoulders and wrists.

Bench, light and quiet practice

What surrounds the piano often decides whether practice happens: a bench that fits the body, warm light on the music and a way to practise in the evening without disturbing anyone.