How Much Should You Spend on a Piano?
Most people consider purchasing a piano to be an investment. While you can undoubtedly find a cheap piano, it is likely to sound more like a toy than a professional instrument.
Investing in a piano is a big decision. Most people want to know how much a good piano costs before they decide to take the plunge.
With this guide, those who are interested in purchasing a piano will learn what they can expect to pay. They will also learn what makes some pianos more expensive than others.
Pianos for Beginners
If you have never played piano before, it would be wise to budget carefully. Some people purchase an expensive piano, only to learn they do not stick with their practice.
You can purchase a decent beginner piano for around $100. Inexpensive digital pianos help you get acquainted with playing before investing a lot of money into a more expensive model.
Many beginners start with an inexpensive digital model to first see if they enjoy the instrument. There is always the option of upgrading to a better brand and model as an individual gains experience.
Varieties of Pianos and Their Costs
One of the biggest determining factors of price is the type of piano. Before beginning the shopping experience, it is helpful to learn about the different types and their price ranges, so you can make an informed purchase.
Digital Pianos
Digital pianos, sometimes referred to as electric pianos, are one of the most affordable types. For beginners, electronic pianos are a prudent choice. If you decide practicing piano becomes too boring, you will not have wasted a lot of money.
Some people find digital pianos to be less intimidating because of their smaller size. It is important to note that these pianos typically do not come with as many keys as a full-size piano. For most beginners, this is not considered a major drawback because they are just starting to learn simple songs.
You can expect to pay between $100 to $200 for a decent digital piano. If you prefer a full-size model with 88 keys, you should plan on paying between $500 to $1000, depending on the brand and features.
Upright Pianos
Upright pianos vary in size but do not take up the space of a grand piano. These pianos are less expensive than some grand styles, but they are not inexpensive.
On average, people will pay between $3,500 to $5,000. Some of the very best upright pianos can cost as much as $10,000. There are three main sub-categories of upright pianos, and they include the following.
- Spinet
- Console
- Full-size
Spinet uprights are the least expensive of this type, but they lack the keys of a full-size. Console uprights are the next choice, with full-size models being the best.
Grand Pianos
Grand pianos are the largest and most expensive types of pianos available. This kind of piano requires a significant investment. Many people do not realize a baby grand piano can be up to three times the size of a standard upright.
Baby grand pianos are typically less than five feet long, while concert grands can be up to nine feet long. These pianos require a substantial amount of space.
An entry-level grand piano will range in price from $5,000 to $10,000. Concert grand pianos can easily cost $100,000 or more.
How to Care for Your New Piano
Aside from beginner-level models, investing in a piano takes a lot of money. Knowing how to care for your new piano is essential. Caring for a piano involves the following tips.
- The piano must be placed in a room with a fairly stable temperature. Temperature extremes and fluctuations can cause damage to a piano.
- Owners need to make sure they have their piano tuned regularly by a professional.
- Regulation services are needed throughout the ownership of a piano. Over time, changes can occur to the wood, felt, and wool, which can impact the way a piano sounds and how it feels to play.
- It is also important a piano is kept clean. Many owners rely on professionals to come out and clean their instruments, to ensure they stay in good condition for many years to come.
- After investing so much money into a piano, you must follow the tips above. Proper care of your piano will prevent damage and will keep it sounding beautiful as long as you play.
Hire Professional Piano Movers
Once you have decided on the perfect piano, you should hire professional piano movers. When you hire a professional, they have the equipment and experience, to ensure the move is safe.
Many new owners hire a piano mover to move their new piano from the shop to their home. These movers can also move your piano from one room to another or even to a new home.
It is important to understand, not all moving trucks are equipped to handle pianos. Owners who try to move a piano on their own could risk serious injuries and damages to their instrument.
Some new piano owners attempt to save money by trying to move a piano with help from friends. Unfortunately, this can end up costing you a lot more money.
Never attempt to move a piano on its leg rollers. These rollers are not functional and can lead to serious piano leg damage. Other damages that can result in improper movement include dings, string damage, and damage to the pins.
Conclusion
Piano ownership is a joyful experience that will bring you many years of beautiful music. Understanding the costs of piano ownership is important before purchasing.
Beginners will likely find a smaller digital piano that will be ideal for play. As you advance, investing in a more expensive full-sized model will bring greater playing satisfaction.
No matter which type of piano you purchase, knowing how to care for it is essential. From tuning to moving, it is important to rely on professionals who have the knowledge, tools, and equipment, to get the job done correctly.