How often should I tune my piano?

At Piano Centre, we recommend tuning any piano two times per year. Recognizing the drastic changes the relative humidity and temperature naturally throw off an instrument’s tuning, especially in the dryer winter months . As a result, our minimum recommendation is a visit twice a year from a technician, this not only ensures better stability from regulating the tension across the instrument’s scale, but the technician can also prevent costly future repairs and will ensure a better playing experience for the musician.

Our family is just starting to play. What is a good piano for beginners?

The best beginner piano is one that encourages the student to play without creating barriers on their technique. We generally recommend a properly weighted 88-note digital piano or a quality acoustic piano with a responsive action. A very inexpensive keyboard can be tempting, but if the touch doesn't allow a student to develop proper technique and dynamics, they can quickly outgrow it.

Our advice is simple: Buy an instrument good enough that it won't hold the player back.

What about a free piano?

In our experience, free pianos are most often expensive projects in disguise. Before moving one home, consider its age, condition and the potential cost of moving, tuning and repairs.

Should I buy an acoustic or digital piano?

Both can be excellent choices. A quality digital piano offers headphones, low maintenance, a smaller footprint and excellent value. We have represented Roland for more than 25 years and particularly like today's better weighted actions for better technique.

An acoustic piano offers something fundamentally different, but it depends on the use and condition. A used piano that has not been inspected (each key) is at risk of being problematic for the student. Fro those genrally commited to playing, we generally encourage moving toward a good acoustic piano when budget and space allow.

How much does tuning cost?

A standard piano tuning for both uprights and grands costs $170 in Edmonton - if a piano hasn’t been tuned in over a year or if the environment hasn’t been stable, a pitch raise may be required at $65. Travel outside of Edmonton may incur additional costs.

How much should I spend on my first piano?

As a general starting point, we recommend budgeting around $1,000 + for a quality digital piano with 88 properly weighted keys, or $3,000 + for an acoustic piano in good condition. Below these ranges, compromises in touch, durability or condition can sometimes make an instrument harder to learn on. You don't need the most expensive piano—but you do need one that is dependable long term, that feels good, inspires practice and won't be quickly outgrown.

Is buying a used piano a good idea?

Absolutely—if you know its history and condition. A well-maintained quality piano can provide decades of enjoyment and excellent value.

What should I look for in a used piano?

Condition matters more than appearance. Age, maintenance history, tuning stability, action condition and structural integrity should all be considered before purchasing.