Taking piano or keyboard lessons allows people of all ages to begin learning music theory, from notes and rests to tempos and melodies. Many eager students have difficulty deciding between the two instruments. Here are some essential differences to help you choose.

3 Ways Pianos & Keyboards Differ

1. Mechanics

Piano keys are attached to wooden hammers, which strike strings to create rich sounds. This instrument doesn’t require power; instead, a wooden plate amplifies the sound of the vibrating strings. Pianists control the dynamics of each note by varying how they press the keys and pedals. For example, to play extended notes, you may hit the keys harder and use a pedal to sustain the sound until you stop it with the damper pedal.

Keyboards are electric pianos that make music by playing digital sounds through speakers. The instruments run on batteries or wired electricity. Keyboards use synthesizers and offer less dynamic control as you can only increase the volume with a knob. If you want to play sustained notes, hold the keys or use a pedal attachment.

2. Size

There are several sizes of pianos, and upright models range from 400 to 500 pounds—grand pianos weigh as much as 1200 pounds. Baby and full grand pianos are between five and 10-feet long and around five-feet wide.

Kids often start with keyboard lessons as the instrument is small, lightweight, and portable. Keyboards come in many sizes, so you can select a model that fits your child’s fingers—this will make it easier for them to master beginner skills. Keyboard keys are also lighter than a piano’s, so they’re easier to press for smaller, less-experienced fingers.

3. Function

A piano’s notes are limited to the pitches associated with each string. Students who want to learn the classic tones will prefer an upright or full-size piano over the electronic sounds of digital models.

Keyboards provide varied programming, so you can use them to play piano music or different instruments, like drums and the guitar, by changing the settings. Students interested in learning electronic music techniques, like adding sound effects or playing multiple instruments from the same interface, may want to take keyboard lessons.

If you or your children want to sign up for piano or keyboard lessons, contact Hawaii MusicWorks. This music school is owner-operated and has provided lessons to residents throughout West Oahu since 1995. Call (808) 486-8600 to get more information about their classes, or fill out a lesson inquiry form online.