Keyboards, Guitars & Gear review for Beginners

Indeed it was nice to queue up Debussy or Chopin during breakfast, and even ask what the weather would be like. That's all extra stuff, and why my mother in law has two of them. But for musicians, music teachers on the go, or other folks who want a convenient way to check out music that's louder than a laptop - the Echo seems like a good investment. Sure I was listening to Chopin and Debussy, but I'm sure the Swift fans and Beliebers of the world would enjoy it equally as much.

This particular student naturally follows the practice goals I give him, so he progresses quite rapidly in piano.  His father said he was always mechanically inclined, and he showed me his collection of Rainbow Loom objects, which he is apparently into.  You can do way more than just make bracelets.  You can make all sorts of objects with a little tool that's not unlike a toy needle-point device.  For $19 I'd try getting these things for my kid in a heartbeat.   According to this study by The Dana Foundation , there is evidence that arts training improves memory and attention in children with an interest in the arts. Yippie!

Why is it cheaper than the more expensive Casios?  Mainly it lacks the added synth and instrument sounds, lineout and/or input jacks, and groovy rhythm tracks and drumbeats.  Simply, if you want something that sounds and feels like a piano for your child or yourself, and aren't concerned with having a bunch of other nifty electronic doodads and rhythms, then get this keyboard.  Note: You can almost always upgrade when it comes to adding bells and whistles - go with your budget.

The important thing to keep in mind when getting a keyboard is that it MUST have a “touch response” or “touch sensitive” functionality.  One of the best and most affordable ones for a beginner who doesn’t want to spend a lot of money is the Yamaha PSR-E323 61-Key Entry-Level Portable Keyboard.  It sells for $139.99 and for a small child will last for a year or two, after which you may want to consider an upgrade.  If you take care of it, it also has great resell value.  Also note:  It helps to get the power adapter that goes with this keyboard Yamaha PA130MM 120 Volt Keyboard AC Power Adaptor so you aren’t blowing through batteries.  For a more serious child or adult student, you may want to consider a Casio Privia, which goes for around $400.  It is more expressive and feels more like a piano.  There are many mid-level Yamaha and Casio digital pianos that are very nice.  You are encouraged to do some research and by all means email me if you have a question.