Looking To Tickle Your Own Ivories? Everything Is Not All Black And White When Buying A Used Piano

Buying a piano, beyond the expense, is a big deal. It's difficult to transport, to find the perfect place for, and then requires a lot of attention to keep it in pristine condition. If you're intent on buying yourself a previously-owned piano, there's work involved in that, too. No matter the labor involved, though, nothing should keep you apart from the ebony and ivory your musical heart is set on.

Ask The Seller A Lot Of Questions

It may be difficult not to fall in love with a piano that looks beautiful; however, as with many things in life, you can't judge this book by its cover. Ask the seller why they're letting the instrument go, how long they've owned it, how often it was played, how well it was maintained, and whether or not it's currently in tune, among other things. Don't be afraid to go beyond the beauty, looking under the hood and interviewing the seller.

Have The Piano Professionally Evaluated

Especially for insurance purposes, you'll need a professional assessment of the piano. Have a technician inspect the instrument you're most interested in to determine the condition of all parts, from bridges to hammers to legs and pedals. Even if you won't have it insured, definitely know that you're buying into a well-maintained clavier and one that will suit you and your home.

Prepare For The Arrival Of Your Piano

Besides hiring movers, or, if you're lucky enough, asking a few strong and steady friends to help, you must prepare an area in your home for the piano. Avoid places with high humidity or dramatic changes in temperature, as they could negatively affect various components of the instrument and its quality of sound. Don't place the piano in direct sunlight, lest you compromise its stunning exterior, particularly a high-shine finish.

Treat Yourself To Music Lessons, If You're Not Already An Aficionado

Some owners of even prestigious pianos can't play a note, but since you want to own one, why not do the instrument justice by having lessons? Even those who play by ear can benefit from being a student of music, not to mention those who already know the difference between a quaver, semiquaver, and demisemiquaver. Owning a piano is such a joy, you really want to fully immerse yourself in the experience and that's usually better accomplished by becoming the best musician you can be.

Maintain The Instrument Meticulously

Taking care of a piano involves regular dusting, gentle washing of the keys, and timely tuning. If you play often, those tasks will need doing more frequently or you could simply have your technician advise you of an appropriate schedule and call if any treble trouble or questions arise.

Preparing for a piano is somewhat akin to preparing for a baby, especially once it arrives home. There's celebrating, playing, much to learn, and a lot of care involved. Make sure the used piano you buy is in the right condition, is purchased from the right seller, and that everything is ready for it once you get it home. You should have many happy years together, so all the time and work you put into choosing the right one is well worth it.

To learn more, reach out to a piano seller in your area.


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