| Are you debating between new and second-hand | | | | Used pianos can often offer you a lot more value for |
| pianos? Although it's important for you to learn the | | | | your money, provided they've been well-maintained. A |
| advantages and disadvantages of each, there's a | | | | good quality piano that is 2 or 3 years old is as good |
| more decisive factor: How much are you really going | | | | as a new one if it's in good condition. One of my |
| to play it?. Unless money is not a factor for you, then | | | | students purchased a 2 year old baby grand piano at |
| you should make a realistic and not an emotional | | | | a 40% discount from someone who was no longer |
| decision. | | | | using it. The first time I saw it, I thought it was a brand |
| Are you, buying a piano based on emotion, or are you | | | | new piano. |
| really committed to learn it and play it regularly? | | | | Don't buy second-hand pianos over 60 years old, |
| Whether people buy new or second-hand pianos, 9 | | | | unless they've been reconditioned and have brand |
| out of 10 times their pianos end up ignored in their living | | | | names. Also, avoid buying pianos from schools, |
| room or basement. If you're about to start piano | | | | churches, and/or public places because they get a |
| lessons or still at the beginning stage, you should | | | | heavy use and many times are neglected. If you buy |
| consider a used piano until you're more certain about | | | | from a private seller, ask if he/she can include tuning |
| your commitment to continue. | | | | and delivery with the purchase. |
| New Pianos | | | | Whether you decide to buy a new or used piano, you |
| You should purchase your new piano from a reputable | | | | should have it inspected by a professional |
| dealer in your area that can offer you a | | | | tuner-technician. The fee for this service is small |
| manufacturer-backed warranty. Ask local piano | | | | compared to the risk of paying too much, or ending up |
| teachers what piano dealers and brands they | | | | with a lemon. |
| recommend. If you take good care of your instrument, | | | | One last option you may want to consider is to rent a |
| it should last you 50 years or more. | | | | piano. Some stores apply the monthly fees to your |
| Don't buy a piano based on its fancy appearance; | | | | purchase if you decide to keep the piano later on. Find |
| select the one with the best internal mechanism. There | | | | out what other charges you may incur in either case |
| are many things to consider when buying a piano such | | | | before making your decision. |
| as: action, strings, hammers, sound quality, etc. A piano | | | | Buying new or second-hand pianos won't be a |
| tuner can evaluate these factors and help you to | | | | complicated process if you do some research and get |
| make an informed decision. | | | | the necessary advice to ensure you end up with a |
| Second-Hand Pianos | | | | quality instrument that you'll enjoy for many years. |