Understanding The Differences Between A Keyboard And Piano

Have you recently gained an interest in playing music? That’s great! However, not every musical instrument is very ‘different’ from each other – in fact, these two have always brought about much confusion.

When you are a newbie in the field of learning a musical instrument, it is quite common to perceive that a keyboard and a piano are the same musical instruments. While it is true that there are certain similarities here and there, at the end of the day – both musical instruments have some level of differences.

While the piano is definitely not an inexpensive instrument, you can come across a wide number of affordable electronic keyboards.

So, before you dive into one of the piano or keyboard lessons for beginners in Singapore – what exactly separates the two from each other? Read on below and let us enlighten you!

Functionality

Piano

While it is not known to bear a striking resemblance to the violin, the piano is defined as a stringed instrument that is played percussively. As the keys of the piano are pressed, the wooden hammers of the instrument are known to strike the respective strings.
As such, the specific note resonates within the piano’s body.

Now, can you hear the majestic sounds of the piano playing? Even if it’s not possible, we’re sure you’ve at least heard it once before! After all – its resonance is something which the piano is famous for.

This is the reason why piano bodies are so large. The space within the musical instrument is known to produce an effective resonance – delivering a richer sound. So, if you make a comparison between a grand and upright piano – you can clearly hear the difference in a minute.

Keyboard

On the other hand, the keyboard is just a misnomer. Technically, the keyboard is referred to as a row or series of keys on a piano body.

However, in the modern era, keyboards have become synonymous with electric or digital pianos. These are high-end digital musical instruments that require electric power to operate.

The electric keyboards are known to produce music through a synthesizer instead of using hammers and strings – making it smaller in structure as compared to a grand piano.

Touch and feel

Piano

One of the major points of differences between a piano and a keyboard is the key itself. Piano keys are known to be heavier and usually carry some weight behind them to be struck by the hammers.

As you are playing the piano, you’ll notice that it delivers a highly natural feel as you are applying the pressure directly on the instrument’s dynamics. This feature gives the piano improved control as far as the overall dynamics, as well as musicality, is concerned.

Keyboard

On the other hand, keyboards are all about matching the abilities offered by a grand piano. However, they are not able to achieve so.

Most of the keyboard models do not possess the dynamic range as that of the piano. This is because most of the musicality and loudness in the instrument are handled through a volume knob, not by pressure being applied on the keys.

Weight

Piano

To anyone’s knowledge, pianos are not light at all. Just by looking at its size, the answer’s already pretty clear.

A smaller upright piano weighs from 400 lbs to 500 lbs – can you imagine how much a larger piano would weigh? Well, a huge one could weigh up to 1200 lbs. That’s usually the reason why piano is fixed to one location – it’s a real hassle to move it around after all.

However, this is just one minor downside. If you are truly passionate about the piano, the signature sound that it can make will definitely blow anyone’s minds away!

Keyboard

Once again, keyboards score another point.

As said earlier, the option of portability alongside the affordability makes it an attractive musical instrument to many! Especially when it comes to the setup, you can easily bring it along to just about any location.

And it gets better; keyboards possess the capability to alter its sounds – for whatever musical needs! Want a slightly mellow tone? Or are you looking to produce an upbeat tune for your next piece? Either way, they’ve got you covered!

Budget

Piano

The musical instrument’s price point is probably the next thing that comes to mind – since you’ll want to own one within your financial ability.

Generally, there are two main types of pianos you can purchase – a traditional piano or digital piano. The former is more likely to burn a hole in your pocket – they can go up to a couple of thousands even if it’s secondhand.

You should only invest in a traditional piano if you’re ready to commit to this musical instrument, otherwise; owning one is not really necessary! A digital piano will do just fine for your keyboard piano lessons.

Keyboard

Meanwhile, keyboards are priced pretty reasonably. Portable ones typically range from $100 to $500 while digital pianos start at $300 to around $1,000.

If you make a little comparison, you’ll even notice that the price point for high-end models is actually pretty similar to smaller upright pianos! So, whether you decide to get a piano or keyboard is completely up to you – it all lies in your passion in the music.

Congratulations, you’ve just learned about the differences between both musical instruments. Now, we hope you know which one suits you best so you can ace the next piece!

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