How to Choose a Grand Piano: A Guide for Beginners

October 25, 2023

How to Choose a Grand Piano: A Guide for Beginners

If you are thinking about buying a grand piano, you might have some questions about how to choose the best one for your needs. Grand pianos are not only beautiful instruments, but also complex and expensive ones. There are many factors to consider before making such a big investment, such as budget, performance, size, style, brand, and maintenance. 

What is the difference between a grand piano and an upright piano?

A grand piano is a type of acoustic piano that has a horizontal soundboard and strings that extend away from the keyboard. An upright piano is a type of acoustic piano that has a vertical soundboard and strings that run perpendicular to the keyboard. Grand pianos generally have a richer and more resonant sound than upright pianos, as well as more responsive and expressive keys. Grand pianos also take up more space and cost more than upright pianos.

What are the different types of grand pianos?

Grand pianos come in different sizes and shapes, depending on the length of the strings and the size of the soundboard. The most common types of grand pianos are:

• Petite grand: The smallest type of grand piano, ranging from 4’5" to 4’10" in length. They are ideal for small spaces and budgets, but they may have a limited dynamic range and tonal quality.
• Baby grand: A popular type of grand piano, ranging from 4’11" to 5’6" in length. They offer a good balance between sound quality and affordability, and they can fit in most living rooms.
• Medium grand: A slightly larger type of grand piano, ranging from 5’7" to 6’4" in length. They have a fuller sound and more projection than baby grands, and they are suitable for larger rooms and studios.
• Parlor grand: A large type of grand piano, ranging from 6’5" to 7’ in length. They have a powerful and rich sound that can fill a concert hall or auditorium, and they are often used by professional pianists and performers.
• Concert grand: The largest type of grand piano, ranging from 7’1" to 10’2" in length. They have the best sound quality and volume of all grand pianos, and they are designed for concert venues and orchestras.

How much does a grand piano cost?

The price of a grand piano depends on many factors, such as the size, brand, model, condition, age, finish, and features of the instrument. Generally speaking, the larger and newer the piano, the more expensive it is. According to Piano Buyer, a guide that provides updated information on retail piano prices, the average manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for a new grand piano in 2023 ranges from $10,225 for a Baldwin BPA1 (43") to $116,190 for an Albert Weber AW 275 (9’). However, these prices are not necessarily what you will pay at a dealer, as they may offer discounts or financing options. 

If you are looking for a used or restored grand piano, you can expect to pay less than a new one, but you should also be careful about the quality and history of the instrument. A used or restored grand piano can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to over a hundred thousand dollars, depending on the brand, model, age, condition, and rarity of the instrument.

There are many brands that offer different features, styles, and prices to suit different preferences and needs. You can find more information about various piano brands on Piano Buyer.

How to choose a grand piano that is right for me?

Choosing a grand piano is a personal and subjective process that depends on your goals, preferences, budget, and space. However, here are some general tips to help you narrow down your options:

• Determine your purpose: Why do you want to buy a grand piano? What kind of music do you want to play? How often do you plan to practice or perform? How serious are you about learning or improving your piano skills? These questions will help you decide what level of quality and performance you need from your instrument.
• Set your budget: How much can you afford to spend on a grand piano? Remember that the price of a grand piano is not only the initial cost, but also the ongoing costs of tuning, maintenance, repairs, insurance, moving, and accessories. You should also consider the value and resale potential of your instrument in case you want to upgrade or sell it in the future.
• Measure your space: How much room do you have for a grand piano? You should measure the dimensions of your space and compare them with the dimensions of the pianos you are interested in. You should also consider the acoustics and aesthetics of your space, as well as the noise level and privacy of your neighbors.

If you have any questions or comments about buying a grand piano, please let our expert sales team help you! 

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