Learning on a piano vs learning on a keyboard - what's the difference?

Here at Viva Piano, children use portable keyboards instead of pianos during our group lessons. Whilst there are some differences between the two, keyboards are effective for learning all the necessary skills to play the piano, and for developing your child's musicality. Plus, they enable our group lessons right here in Letchworth!

Here are our thoughts on some of the similarities and differences.

They (pretty much) look the same.

The piano and keyboard have the same layout of black and white keys, so everything children learn about key signatures, finger positioning, and scales can easily transfer between the two.

Your basics? Only learn once.

The basics - scales, chords, progressions - are exactly the same for both. Plus, concepts like dynamics and musical directions apply to a wide range of instruments.

Change it up!

Many musicians, including myself, use both piano and keyboard interchangeably in their professional practice. As mentioned, nothing children learn on a keyboard can't be applied to a piano if they get the opportunity to play one.

Do they feel different?

A bit. Keyboards have lighter, unweighted keys, so they don’t feel exactly like a piano. However, our courses focus on introductory skills like reading notes, scales and improvisation, rather than more advanced piano repertoire like jazz or classical. It also means we don’t need to focus on developing finger strength.

Fewer keys for little hands.

Pianos have 88 keys, while keyboards come in different sizes. We’ll use 61-key keyboards, giving beginners five octaves - a brilliant range for younger kids or beginners.

Save your back!

Keyboards are portable, easy to store, and transport - imagine trying to move around six pianos!

As always, if you're concerned, please reach out to us at info@vivapiano.co.uk.