Nothing fits into every tradition of music quite like a piano. From jazz to blues, from musicals to international concert halls, those eighty-eight keys have their place. A good quality piano is perfect for any style of music. It’s just a matter of finding one that works.
If you find a piano that’s free, as long as you haul it away, you don’t have to expect much from it. As the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.”
But, if you expect to pay for a quality instrument that will both feel and sound great, there is a lot more to it. In that case, quality is the #1 consideration.
How Do You Judge Quality?
Like any musical instrument, the key to quality with a piano is its construction and the materials used. You are always better off buying an item handmade by experienced craftsmen, rather than one that is churned out in a factory somewhere.
The care and attention is reflected in the price. Special care is always taken with handmade instruments that quality control managers in a factory setting just can’t keep up with.
Parts are important, and you can look inside before you buy if you know what you are looking for. The action of a piano is determined by the quality of thousands of tiny parts that operate inside when you press a key.
A good instrument should be sensitive to your fingers, so that all you have to do is depress the key slightly and you will hear a tone. If you have to pound on the keys to get them to ring out, keep looking.
The hammers are also really important in creating the sound. A variety of materials are used on the tips of the hammers. The best materials for hammers are wool fabrics, especially those that are 100% wool. Cheap pianos often use lacquer for their tips, and this can create a sharp, tinny sound that’s not so good when you want to play softly.
The quality of the strings is also important to the sound. Strings should be made of high-quality steel and copper. They stretch over a plate which has an effect on the resonance of the notes. The plate should be cast iron.
The last part of the piano that affects the sound, and is no less important than all the rest, is the soundboard. This piece is a wooden diaphragm that amplifies the sound and pushes it out.
The soundboard should be made of a high quality wood that won’t warp or crack as it gets older. A good soundboard will also ensure that the lows are deep and full, the middles are clear, and the highs are rich and vibrant. There shouldn’t be any muddiness or tinny sound in any of the notes you play.
Which Style?
Whether to go upright or grand is a matter of personal taste. Of course, grand pianos are the favored style, but it’s not always practical to have one because they take up so much space. On the other hand, it is better to buy a well-made upright in good shape than a cheaply made grand. The sound will be much better.
When shopping, always look for a good brand. This will guarantee that it is well constructed and made to last. The better brands will give you the best quality for your money. There are several out there, so you may want to do a check to see what the professionals are using. In most cases, the professionals are going to select the best instruments.
The best way for you to choose is to simply sit down and play. Like a test drive, you need to experience the instrument before you purchase it. Listen to how it sounds, and see how it feels. Remember that it’s a major purchase, so don’t let yourself be pressured into buying before you’re sure.
For the best prices on high quality pianos, look for manufacturer licensed dealers.
About the author: High quality instruments are costly because of the care put into them. Taking the time to make your decision allows you to find the piano best fitted to you. In Louisiana, piano dealers can get you high quality instruments. Hall Piano Company can help you make your choice. http://www.hallpiano.com
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com