Buying An Acoustic Piano

Upright pianos are an excellent choice for parents wanting to invest in their child’s music education. It offers an authentic touch that keyboards try to replicate and is a great choice for smaller rooms, as it doesn’t take up so much space as a grand piano does. Acoustic pianos need regular tuning at least once a year to keep their their sound quality and internal components running smoothly. If buying a brand new piano, then it will require tuning at least twice during its first year to help the piano strings settle and stretch.  

1) What Type of Model Should I Look For? 

Generally, avoid spinets and console piano models. A spinet piano measures less than 40 inches tall (measured from floor to the top of the lid). A console piano typically measures between 40 and 44 inches in height. Thus, they are smaller and more compact versions of an upright piano. They not only have a terrible sound but also troublesome drop actions. These qualities make them generally inadequate as a training tool for intermediate and advance pianists.  For upright piano brands, we recommend Yamaha, Kawai, Steinway & Sons, C. Bechstein, Mason & Hamblin, Stuart & Sons, Blüthner and Bösendorfer. 

2) Where To Purchase?  

The easiest route is to purchase from certified southern California piano stores. They offer the widest selection and many of their refurbished pianos are detailed to the highest standard and come with a multi-year warranty. Purchase also comes with free delivery and tuning for a year. 

You may also choose to buy pianos from platforms such as Facebook marketplace or Offer Up. While this is a more cost effective route, make sure to hire a piano technician to ensure the quality of the internal components before purchase.  Also make sure to get the history of the piano from the seller. Questions such as “How often was it played?” and “Was it tuned yearly?” can give you an indication of its care and condition.  

3) Where Should We Keep Our Piano? 

Humidity is an important factor when placing your piano. Excessive humidity can lead to sticky keys, sluggish hammers and dampers, and rusty pins and strings. Do not keep pianos near heating vents, fireplaces, gas heaters and radiators. If you have an open floor plan (kitchen and living room together), try to place the piano as far away from the stove as possible.