Recommended Pianos & Keyboards

If possible, consider getting an acoustic piano. Although there is a higher cost for annual tunings, the sound quality is amazing. Of course, this option is subject to your neighbors' tolerance.

We recommend visiting Big Wrench Piano, a local store in the neighborhood. See below for details.

All of the keyboards have built-in speakers and headphone jacks. Additionally, you will need to purchase a stand and bench for your child to sit at the keys. While a sustain pedal is not necessary right away, you may want to add one within a few months.

LOW BUDGET OPTIONS

Portable - Semi-Weighted

These can be used to start and also be useful for travel purposes. If you want the full piano feel, you need the fully weighted keys - see down below.

• Yamaha NP-12 - $199 - 61 keys portable keyboard

Yamaha NP12 61-Key Lightweight Portable Keyboard with PA130 Power Adapter, Black

• Roland Go Keys - 61 keys - even works with batteries - $340

Roland GO:PIANO 61-key Portable Piano

FULLY WEIGHTED 88 KEY OPTIONS

VALUE OPTION

**Donner - 88 keys with built-in stand** - $498

This is an incredible deal. The company started in 2012 in China and has consistently received rave reviews.

GREAT

**Yamaha - P71 - around $500 + stand and bench**

Don’t forget the stand and bench

One of the oldest and proven reliable brands used by pros and amateurs alike - I love all Yamaha instruments including pianos, guitars, sax, recorders, amplifiers

ALSO GREAT

Casio Privia - around $800

Casio actually makes great digital pianos. My first was a Casio and I used it to score films, teach students and eventually sold it to a student.

BEST

Yamaha Clavinova - Around $2000

You can go to Guitar Center At the Atlantic Mall near Target or order online here

These have wood keys and feel just like a real piano. But it has the option of a volume control! Great for apartment life.

This is a great option when you want a digital piano that looks like furniture to fit well into your living room. Also, it sounds fantastic.

LOCAL PIANO DEALERS

Big Wrench Piano (he also has guitars - see below about Brooklyn Fine Guitars)

• 🎹 Brian Whiton is the owner and piano technician of Big Wrench Piano Care. He specializes in rebuilding acoustic pianos and also has a few digital pianos from Yamaha. In addition, he offers the option of upgrading any digital piano to an acoustic one if you purchase from him. He has promised to provide our students with a better deal and service, so please mention us when you visit.

• 📍 Big Wrench Piano Care is located at Hoyt and Degraw Street in Carroll Gardens.

• 🌐 For more information, visit their website at http://www.bigwrench.com, and check out our YouTube video interview with Brian from a few years ago:

Guitar Center - at Atlantic Mall near Target

They have a full set of digital pianos, drums, guitars and more. You can go and try them out.

GUITARS

First local stop is to check out Brooklyn Fine Guitars - it’s the same shop as Big Wrench Pianos. Please tell them that Andrew sent you from Musicolor Method (formerly Park Slope Music Lessons).

**Brooklyn Fine Guitars:**

264 Hoyt Street, Brooklyn, NY, 11217

brooklynfineguitars@gmail.com

917-375-1574

Electric Guitars

• Yamaha Pacifica

• Ibanez

Acoustic Guitars

• Yamaha 3/4

• Martin

• Taylor - Baby Taylor

Recommended Guitar Amplifier

I highly recommend this amp emulator—it’s truly a game-changer! The sound quality is phenomenal, with a wide range of effects like distortions, delays, and choruses, all easily controlled through an app on your phone. Whether you want to practice silently with headphones or connect to any speaker, this little device delivers big-time.

It’s compact, versatile, and perfect for both kids and adults looking to elevate their practice sessions. You won’t be disappointed—this thing is worth every penny!

You can get it here: https://www.guitarcenter.com/Fender/Mustang-Micro-Plus-Headphone-Amp-Black-1500000422519.gc

Violin & Viola

If your child is starting violin or viola, consider either renting or purchasing an instrument. Renting offers flexibility as your child grows, while purchasing can be a cost-effective long-term investment if they are committed to playing.

We recommend Johnson String Instrument, a trusted provider offering both rentals and sales of high-quality violins and violas. They also provide maintenance and accessories. Visit their website for more details:

Johnson String Instrument

Be sure to select the appropriate size for your child, along with essential accessories like a shoulder rest or sponge, rosin, and a sturdy case—usually included with rentals or purchases.

Johnson String Instrument

1029 Chestnut Street, Newton Upper Falls, MA 02464

info@johnsonstring.com

617-964-0954

Toll Free: 800-359-9351