Buying a Piano

 

General

Purchasing a piano can be a daunting experience, especially for beginning pianists. Here are some general considerations as you begin your search:

  • Make sure to get a full-size keyboard (88 keys, not 61).

  • Yamaha, Roland, Williams, and Casio are the most popular brands. I recommend Yamaha and Roland for starter and intermediate-level keyboards as well as professional pianos.

  • You can purchase on Amazon (links below), elsewhere online, or locally at a Guitar Center or other music store in your area. If you are on a budget, consider looking on Facebook Marketplace or eBay for a used model, or ask your local music store about used keyboards and rental options.

Accessories

When you buy a digital piano, make sure to also purchase these items:

  • Keyboard stand

  • Piano bench (adjustable is better)

  • Music stand/holder (your keyboard will probably come with this, but check to make sure)

  • Pedal (your keyboard should come with this as well, but check to make sure)

  • Headphones (optional, but necessary if you will be playing/practicing with other people around)

Recommended Models

These are my top 2 recommendations for worship pianists:

Yamaha P-45

Average retail price: $549

(Click the picture to view the Amazon listing.)

Yamaha P-125

Average retail price: $699

The P-125 has a smoother feel than the P-45 and is perfect for learning classical music as well as worship piano.

(Click the picture to view the Amazon listing.)

Budget-Friendly Models

If possible, I recommend purchasing one of the Yamaha models above.
However, for those on a budget, these are great starter pianos as well:

Williams Legato III

Average retail price: $249

(Higher-priced on Amazon. Check Guitar Center for the best price.)

Williams Allegro III

Average retail price: $349

(Not available on Amazon. Check Guitar Center for the best price.)

Other Models

These are other models to consider as well, depending on your budget and preferences for brand or feel. I recommend playing the Roland keyboards in-person before purchasing them.

Roland RD-88

Average retail price: $1549

This is a great option for pianists who want to experiment with special effects, such as compression, equalization, reverb, and more.

(Click the picture to view the Amazon listing.)