How To Select A Piano: The Basics

When it comes to selecting the perfect piano, it's important to consider several factors to ensure you’re getting the best instrument for your needs, budget, and space. As a pianist, teacher, (and mom!) I understand that choosing the right piano can be a long and confusing process. To help make the experience more enjoyable, I’ve put together this simple guide to help you learn the basics and feel confident navigating the decision-making process.

The Four S's

To make your selection easier, we suggest you focus on The Four S's of piano selection. These are the four key factors in determining the right piano for you.

1. Size

   • Determine the space available in your home for a piano. Pianos range in size from compact uprights to grands which require more space. The size will affect both the sound and visual presence in your room.

2. Style

   • A piano will be with your family for a long time so consider the aesthetic appeal. Pianos come in a variety of styles, from traditional designs to modern, sleek finishes. Choose a style that fits your home decor and personal taste.

3. Sound

   • Listen for the quality of sound the piano produces. High-quality pianos offer a richer, more dynamic tone, whereas budget-friendly pianos may produce a more basic sound. Be sure the sound resonates with you.

4. Sensation

   • The feel of the keys and the action of the piano are essential. Sit at the piano, and test how it feels when you play. A responsive touch can make playing more enjoyable and intuitive. This is the most important S for students. 

(If you do not play the piano or you are purchasing a piano for a child, the representative you work with should be a pianist or an accredited teacher.)

Four Categories 

To make the best investment, it's important to understand a pianos value. Pianos can be classified into four main categories. Understanding these categories will help you better understand which instruments meet your musical needs and help inform budget. We will start by understanding the four piano categories of new pianos and leave used piano variables (such as condition and age) for another article.

1. Consumer Grade Pianos (Uprights: $5,000 - $8,000 | Grands: $10,000 - $15,000) 

These pianos are ideal for beginners or those on a budget. Mass-produced and designed for first-time players or entry-level students, they are functional and cost-effective options.

• Upright Brands/Models:

  • Tier 1- Pearl river, J Strauss, Samick

  • Tier 2- Hallet Davis, Essex, Altenberg, Baldwin

  • Tier 3- Kawai K15 and 506, Yamaha B and P

• Grand Brands/Models:

  • Tier 1- Samick, Pearl River, Jstrauss

  • Tier 2- Essex, Hallet Davis, Pramberger

  • Tier 3- Yamaha GB series, Baldwin, Otto Altenberg

• Where they're made: China, Indonesia

• Ideal for: Budget-conscious beginners

2. Premium Pianos (Uprights: $7,000 - $11,000 | Grands: $15,000 - $25,000)

These pianos offer enhanced performance, higher-quality materials, and better responsiveness. They are typically taller, which results in a more dynamic sound.

• Upright Brands/Models:

  • Tier 1- Baldwin BP1 & 5

  • Tier 2- Yamaha B, P, M series, Boston

  • Tier 3- Kawai K200 ST1, Seiler ED series

• Grand Brands/Models:

  • Tier1- Baldwin, Knabe, Johannes Seiler, Petroff

  • Tier 2- Kawai GL10-20, W Hoffman, Seiler ED, Boston

  • Tier 3- Kawai GL30-40, Hoffman, W Schimmel

• Where they're made: Primarily American, Japanese, European components; sometimes assembled in China and Indonesia

• Ideal for: Intermediate players or those looking for a step-up in sound and sensation

3. High Performance Pianos (Uprights: $10,000 - $20,000 | Grands $25,000 - 40,000)

Professional-grade instruments with advanced actions and superior sound. These pianos are the best value. They’re made with the finest components and are built to last. They are ideal for serious students and hobbyists who’d like a piano that they will grow into, not out of.

• Upright Brands/Models:

  • Tier 1- Boston 126 132, Hoffman

  • Tier 2- Kawai K300, 400, Yamaha U1, U3

  • Tier 3- Kawai K500, Schultz pullman 50'+, Bechstein 50'+

• Grand Brands/Models:

  • Tier 1- Kawai GX1, Yamaha C1, Bechstein A160

  • Tier 2- Kawai GX2, Yamaha C2, C Schimmel 169-189, Bechstein B and C Bechstein

  • Tier 3- Kawai GX3 or larger, Yamaha C3 or larger, C Schimmel 213, C Bechstein B.

    
    

• Where they're made: 100% Japanese, German, American components and assembly.

• Ideal for: Dedicated players, hobbyists and students

4. Luxury Pianos (Upright: $20,000 and up | Grands: $40,000 and up)

Handcrafted, luxury pianos from world-renowned brands. These pianos offer exceptional craftsmanship, tone quality, and aesthetic appeal. Luxury pianos are for discerning musicians, collectors and enthusiasts who value the epitome of art and standards in instrument making.

• Upright Brands/Models:

  • Tier 1- Charles Walter

  • Tier 2- Bluthner, Steinway,

  • Tier 3- C Bechstein, Seiler SE, K Schimmel

• Grand Brands/Models:

  • Tier 1- Bluthner, Charles Walter, Yamaha S

  • Tier 2- K Schimmel, Seiler SE, Yamaha CFX

  • Tier 3- Steinway D, Kawai Shigeru, Bosendorfer, C Bechstein D, Fazioli F

    
    

• Where they're made: Handmade in America, Germany or Japan. Can take 9-12 months to complete just one of these pianos.

• Ideal for: Professionals, collectors, home decor, and those seeking the ultimate in piano tone, touch and overall range of expression and responsiveness.

Final Thoughts

There are many other good piano brands and models not listed above. As a teacher and pianist for nearly two decades, I’m happy to help you learn more about pianos and help you through the process of finding the perfect instrument (for both your musical goals and your budget!) Please feel free to reach out for assistance.

If you’re unsure about whether your child is committed to learning, ask me about student evaluations and check out the article “Your First Piano: Balancing Affordability and Quality.”