REQUEST PRE-OWNED STEINWAY & Bösendorfer INVENTORY LIST

The Perfect Gift: A Guide to Buying a Piano

November 13, 2024

The Perfect Gift: A Guide to Buying a Piano

Buying a piano as a gift is a gesture that resonates with thoughtfulness and sophistication. Whether you're looking to inspire a budding musician, provide a serene hobby for a loved one, or simply share the joy of music, a piano makes an exceptional present. 

However, purchasing a piano involves more than just selecting an instrument; it requires consideration of various factors to ensure the recipient receives a gift they'll cherish. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Recipient’s Needs

Before diving into the types of pianos available, it's crucial to understand the needs and preferences of the person you're buying the piano for:

  1. Skill Level: Are they a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player? A beginner may benefit from a simpler, more user-friendly instrument, while an experienced pianist might appreciate the nuances of a high-quality grand piano.
  2. Space and Lifestyle: Consider the space where the piano will be placed. Do they live in a small apartment or a spacious house? The size of the piano and the acoustics of the room are important factors.
  3. Musical Goals: Is the piano intended for casual playing, formal lessons, or even performances? Knowing their goals can help you choose an instrument that aligns with their ambitions.

Types of Pianos

There are several types of pianos to choose from, each with its own characteristics and benefits:

  1. Upright Pianos: These are compact and cost-effective, making them ideal for smaller spaces. Upright pianos are perfect for beginners and casual players. They offer a robust sound and are easier to maintain than grand pianos.
  2. Grand Pianos: Known for their superior sound quality and aesthetic appeal, grand pianos are suitable for intermediate to advanced players. They require more space and a larger budget, but they offer an unparalleled playing experience. Baby grands are a smaller, more affordable option within this category.
  3. Digital Pianos: These pianos are versatile and often come with features like headphone jacks, various instrument sounds, and recording capabilities. They are suitable for all skill levels and are ideal for those who need a portable and maintenance-free option.

Key Considerations

When buying a piano, keep the following factors in mind to ensure you make a thoughtful and practical choice:

  1. Budget: Pianos can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Determine your budget before you start shopping and stick to it. Keep in mind that there are quality options available at various price points.
  2. Brand and Quality: Research reputable brands known for their quality and durability. Brands like Hailun, Petrof, &  Kawai are renowned for their craftsmanship and sound quality.
  3. Sound and Touch: The piano's sound and touch are crucial. If possible, play a few notes or have a professional demonstrate the instrument. The piano should have a pleasant tone and a responsive touch.
  4. Maintenance: Consider the maintenance requirements of the piano. Acoustic pianos require regular tuning and may need occasional repairs. Digital pianos, on the other hand, are low-maintenance.

Adding a Personal Touch

To make the gift even more special, consider adding a personal touch:

  1. Lessons: Include a voucher for piano lessons with a local teacher. This gesture not only encourages the recipient to start playing but also provides them with the guidance they need.
  2. Music Books: Select a few music books or sheet music that align with their musical tastes. From classical pieces to contemporary hits, having a variety of music to play can enhance their experience.
  3. Accessories: Consider adding accessories such as a comfortable piano bench, a metronome, or a quality pair of headphones for digital pianos.

Making the Purchase

When you're ready to make the purchase, visit us to speak with our knowledgeable staff and try out different models. We offer delivery and setup services, ensuring that the piano arrives safely and is properly installed in the recipient's home.

Buying a piano as a gift is a thoughtful and lasting gesture that can bring joy and inspiration for years to come. By considering the recipient's needs, understanding the different types of pianos, and adding a personal touch, you can ensure that your gift will be cherished and appreciated. Whether you're giving the gift of music to a novice or an experienced pianist, a well-chosen piano can become a treasured part of their life.





Also in NorthWest Pianos Blog

Portable Piano Revolution — Play Anywhere, No Cord Needed
Portable Piano Revolution — Play Anywhere, No Cord Needed

October 21, 2025

One of the most exciting shifts in the piano world right now is the rise of battery-powered, portable pianos. Instruments like Roland’s GO:PIANO88 show that full-sized keybeds, high-quality sound engines, and wireless operation can coexist. Roland

Continue Reading

Why Piano Sales are Dropping — And What It Means for the Next Generation
Why Piano Sales are Dropping — And What It Means for the Next Generation

October 21, 2025

Across the U.S., piano sales have taken a nosedive. A recent CBS News article reported that in 2024, only 17,294 pianos were sold — compared to hundreds of thousands in past decades. CBS News The reason isn’t lack of interest in music; it’s economics, cultural change, and preference shifts. Young people are renting, using digital subscriptions, or choosing digital pianos as introductory tools.

Continue Reading

AI & Robotics in Piano Performance — When Machines Learn to Play with Feeling
AI & Robotics in Piano Performance — When Machines Learn to Play with Feeling

October 21, 2025

In 2025, one of the most fascinating developments in piano technology is happening at the intersection of artificial intelligence, robotics, and musical expression. A research team recently introduced PANDORA, a diffusion-based policy learning framework that enables robotic hands to play piano pieces with precision and expressive nuance. The system uses language models to measure stylistic quality and musicality, blending human emotion with algorithmic accuracy. arXiv

Continue Reading