The wonderful world of piano... The piano is the most popular instrument that we teach. Perfect as a first study, but also a useful skill for any musician to have. The piano allows players to visualise melodies and harmonies and enables the player to play multiple lines simultaneously. It is an amazing solo instrument as well as fitting in a wide range of bands and ensembles. Its full name is the pianoforte - or soft / loud - because you can play a full range of musical dynamics (volumes) on the piano; something that wasn't possible on its predecessor, the harpsichord.

When to start learning The piano is a very accessible instrument and pupils can be introduced to it from a very young age. We offer piano lessons from age 5 and up in some schools and from 7 up at our South Wimbledon Music Centre and online.

Your own piano Practice makes perfect. Ideally, yes, pupils would have access to a piano at home or in school in order to practice. This isn't always going to be possible though! A good basic keyboard will suffice for a beginner - make sure it has touch sensitivity (so your child can practice playing at different dynamics). We offer keyboards for hire.  As your child grows and their skills develop, you should consider buying a full size electric keyboard with weighted keys as this will more closely replicate the experience of playing a piano and allow for greater expression. This will be necessary for obtaining higher grade performance exams.

Often used interchangeably, the piano and a keyboard are two different instruments. The piano is an acoustic instrument that generates sound by striking strings with a soft hammer. 'Keyboard' is both an electric instrument and the name for the part of the piano that a performer plays - where the keys are! A good basic keyboard will suffice for a beginner player (get one with touch sensitivity or hire one from us!). A full size electric piano with weighted keys may be necessary for older, more able players. It is also possible to study the keyboard as an instrument in its own right, making use of the various musical options made available through technology - a useful skill for many areas of music performance including popular music and west-end shows!