A beginners guide to keys
At Good Vibes Music Academy, we’re all about setting you up for success. If you're starting out on keys, choosing the right instrument can make all the difference. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’ve broken it down for you. Whether you're exploring keyboards, digital pianos, or acoustic pianos, we’ve got you covered.
Beginner Keyboards
Beginner keyboards are a fantastic starting point. They’re lightweight, portable, and the most budget-friendly option. Most beginner keyboards have 61 keys (compared to the 88 keys on a full-size piano), which is perfect for learning the basics and finding your way around the notes. Plus, they’re easy to pack away, making them ideal if space is tight.
While the keys don’t feel quite like a real piano, a beginner keyboard is more than enough for getting to grips with your first tunes. For those ready to take things to the next level, there are full-size keyboards used by many pro-gigging musicians that offer more advanced features.
Digital Pianos
Digital pianos are a popular choice for players who want a balance between sound quality and practicality. They’re built to replicate the feel and sound of an acoustic piano but come with perks like a headphone jack (hello, quiet practice sessions!) and a compact, sturdy design. Most digital pianos are designed as one solid piece, so you won’t need a stand. If you’re serious about your keys journey, a digital piano can be a brilliant long-term investment.
Acoustic Pianos
Ah, the acoustic piano. Nothing beats the rich sound and feel of a real piano—whether it’s a grand or upright model. That said, they’re the heaviest, loudest, and most expensive option, both to buy and maintain. If you’re lucky enough to have space for one, it’s the ultimate choice for dedicated players. But don’t worry, even the best musicians start small!
Getting Set Up for Success
Once you’ve chosen your instrument, it’s time to get set up correctly. Good posture and positioning are key to avoiding strain and building solid technique. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Posture: Sit up straight with your feet flat on the floor and shoulders relaxed. Your forearms should be parallel to the floor, and your wrists should naturally fall slightly onto the keys.
Adjustments: Use an adjustable stand or stool where possible. If you’re sitting on a regular chair, add cushions for height. For children, a footstool or sturdy box can help keep their feet flat.
Taking the time to set up properly will make playing comfortable and enjoyable from day one.
Finding Your Notes
On the piano right is up and left is down. The piano is special because it visually displays every note you can play, making it easier to spot patterns. Start by looking at the black keys—they’re grouped in twos and threes.
Here’s a quick exercise to get started:
Find a pair of two black keys. Place your index and middle fingers on them.
The first white key to the left is C.
Locate all the C’s across the instrument using this method.
From C, move up the white keys to find D, E, F, and G. Move down to locate A and B.
As you get familiar with the notes, look for patterns to help you remember them. For example, F is always to the left of the group of three black keys. This pattern-based approach makes learning notes fun and straightforward.
At Good Vibes, we believe in making learning music accessible, fun, and rewarding. Whether you're starting on a beginner keyboard or taking your first steps with a digital piano, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to dive in? Let’s get those fingers moving!
Lawrence Eaves (Keys/Piano Teacher at GVMA)