The keyboard is a fun and exciting instrument that’s great for beginner musicians. The different keys and hand-eye coordination needed to master this instrument may be daunting at first, but don’t let this discourage you. With time, dedication, and the perfect beginner keyboard: you’ll learn how to memorize the keys and master the instrument.\
Before learning to play the keyboard, you’ll need the right beginner keyboard. The perfect keyboard for beginners is usually lightweight and easy to play. It’s there to help you master the keys, take on the intricate handwork and eventually learn how to use a traditional piano.
If you’ve ever wanted to try the keyboard, you’ve come to the right place.
Here’s everything you need to know when buying your first keyboard:
What to consider when shopping for a keyboard
Action
Action is how well the keys on a keyboard respond when you’re playing. Keyboards can vary in firmness and resistance, providing a different playing experience.
If the keys are unweighted, it’s typically easier to play with little resistance. When the keys are weighted, they are firmer and resistant to touch. This makes them a great choice for beginners looking to familiarize themselves with the keys.
Sound
The sound is arguably one of the most important aspects of a good keyboard for beginners. If you take some time to shop the different options on the market, you’ll find that many of the best brands sell keyboards that provide a high-quality sound that resembles a traditional piano.
There are two other sound components to keep in mind: Polyphony and multitimodality. Polyphony is the number of sounds a keyboard can produce at once. Multimodality is the keyboard’s ability to play different sounds, such as drums, string instruments, and other background essentials.
Size
The best keyboard option for adult beginners is a full-size keyboard with weighted keys. If you’re more interested in the electronic side of things, you may consider a smaller keyboard with unweighted keys. These options tend to have more sound options, storage, and electronic capabilities.
Recording Capabilities
If you’re interested in musical composition, you’ll want to ensure the keyboard you choose has different recording capabilities. Recording capabilities will help you explore other aspects of playing the keyboard and record your music to share with others.
MIDI Compatibility
MIDI stands for musical instrument digital interface. While it might not always be necessary when you’re starting out, it can be important later down the line if you’re interested in electronic music.
Storage
Storage often refers to the number of blank settings a keyboard has for new sounds and user presets. If you’re someone that wants to explore the electronic side of keyboards, you’ll want to have enough desired storage for a complete keyboard experience.
Keyboard Output
Keyboard output is a necessary feature for all beginners. The output allows you to attach your keyboard to speakers and amps. Without keyboard output, you won’t have the connections needed to perform for your friends, family, and at events.
The different types of keyboards
Synthesizer
A synthesizer is a great beginner’s choice. Synthesizers are smaller in size and portable. This electronic keyboard also features a range of sounds and sound effects.
Arranger
Arrangers are auto-accompaniment. All you need to do is select a few different options, and the keyboard will put together a backing track that matches the style, rhythm, and tempo. However, the different options can be overwhelming for first-timers, and it may take some time to learn how to use an arranger keyboard to the best of its ability.
Workstation
A workstation keyboard is a high-quality keyboard that typically comes with a high price tag. They come with their own computer and a suite of advanced programming options and essentially include their own computer for composition and advanced program options. However, they typically have weighted keys and are considered one of the best options by industry standards.
Take Your Keyboard Experience to the Next Level with MI
If you find you’re passionate about playing the keyboard, our keyboard program may be the perfect next step in your music career.
At MI, we want to help passionate keyboard players explore their talents. Our curriculum combines traditional keyboard performance with cutting-edge keyboard-based technology.
Want to learn more? Contact us today to learn more about our keyboard program.