Piano Lessons vs. Keyboard Lessons: Where Should My Child Start?

If your child has decided to start tickling the ivories, you may be wondering where to begin. Many places offer piano and keyboard lessons and while they have some similarities, there are also some important differences.

Many parents assume that piano and keyboard lessons are basically the same and that once you know how to play one you can play the other. The truth is that if neither you nor your child have experience with these types of instruments you’ll want to understand the differences between them and the pros and cons of piano and keyboard lessons. Here are some differing aspects to consider.

Style – Keyboard vs Piano

The sound of a keyboard vs a piano is usually quite different. If a more traditional sound is what interests your child, then piano lessons might be the better choice. Classical, jazz and blues usually sound best when played on an acoustic piano (some digital pianos also do a good job of replicating a classic piano sound). Children who are more interested in playing modern music may lean towards the keyboard as its sounds lend themselves to current music. This is not to say that a person can’t play modern music on a piano or classical on a keyboard; it’s just not what’s most commonly done.

Dedication to the Process

Another consideration when deciding between keyboard and piano lessons is the level of dedication you think your child has to learning smaller details. Keyboards are created to emit the perfect note every time a key is pressed. Your child will  be focusing on finger placement, rhythm, and speed rather than gaining a feel for the technique of playing an acoustic instrument.Learning to play the piano involves specific techniques such as getting the feel for pressing the pedals and properly pressing the keys. Parents should consider how much interest their child has for learning to play an instrument and their level of perseverance in learning multiple  skills at once.

Portability

Thinking about where and when your child is likely to want to practice or play the instrument is another important consideration. Think about the venues where your child will probably play. If they are interested in playing modern music at a variety of locations, then a keyboard might be the better choice. Alternatively, if they are likely to play more traditional piano music at venues that usually have a piano (such as at church) then piano lessons are probably the best option.

Key Feel

Sometimes starting on a keyboard with fewer keys is easier for a child. The number of keys on a keyboard may be far fewer than the number on a piano. Some keyboards can have as few as 25 keys. Most, however, come in 49, 61, and 76 key versions and some have 88 keys just like a piano. While your child may enjoy starting off with fewer keys, you need to assess how serious they seem about sticking with the instrument or switching to piano lessons down the road. Consider having your child learn on an 88 key keyboard with weighted keys if they have aspirations of moving from the keyboard to the piano in the future.

Practice Time

Another thing to think about is where and when your child will practice the instrument. If you live in close proximity to others (such as in an apartment building) or if your child will need to practice late at night, then keyboard lessons could be a good choice. Many keyboards have an audio jack, so your child could plug in a set of headphones and practice without disturbing anyone else.

There are many similarities and differences between learning to play the piano and the keyboard,  and making the transition from one to the other is easier for some than for others. Take the time to assess your child’s interests in the instruments,  explore the opportunities in your area and you’ll be sure to make the best choice for you.