Piano Education Partnership for Piano Teachers
Research shows us time and again that piano lessons make kids healthier, happier and smarter. Yet, schools all across the United States continue to cut funding for vital music programs. It has never been more critical for local music stores and piano teachers to work together. …and that is why we are proud to announce our all-new “Piano Education Partnership” program (or “PEP”).
The Piano Education Partnership (“PEP”) is a true, three-way collaboration between piano teachers, their students and Riverton Piano Company – created to enhance the piano lessons experience, provide students with meaningful music memories, and to give families the information they need to make better piano investment decisions.
There is no cost to join and the benefits include:
Hybrid Pianos – The Perfect Mix of Pianos and Digital Pianos
More than 80% of all pianos sold today plug in. Does that surprise you? It’s true, but it may not mean what you think. Most people think of pianos as either “traditional acoustic” instruments (which generate sound mechanically with hammers striking strings, etc.) or “digital” instruments (which generate sound electronically), but what most folks don’t know is that there are entire categories of pianos in-between. These somewhat mysterious and poorly-defined instruments are called “Hybrid Pianos” and – they might be exactly what you are looking for.
Digital Piano Basics – What to Know BEFORE You Buy
Digital pianos are outselling acoustic pianos by a staggering ratio of 6 to 1 today. …and – on one hand – that’s not terribly surprising giving the lower costs and extra learning tools associated with digital instruments. Unfortunately, a closer look at these numbers reveals that an overwhelming majority of digital pianos sold are woefully inadequate instruments. In fact, they are playing a big role in student attrition all over America and could be responsible – if not put in check – for the loss of an entire generation of potential music makers. I don’t say this lightly – neither do I post it here to scare you into purchasing an acoustic piano (Full disclosure – I own a digital piano myself.). No. I say this because I am passionate about making sure piano students have the best shot at success and because I want you to understand the critical differences between “good” digital pianos (expressive musical instruments that can motivate student success or inspire experienced players) and “bad” digital pianos (cheaply-made instruments that look like pianos, but do not provide the feedback and/or control necessary to delight players). As a pianist of over 35 years, a music education columnist and nationally-known piano expert, it is my hope that this guide will help you avoid a mistake that could cost you – or your loved ones – the opportunity to turn their musical dreams into reality.
Piano Basics: What to Know Before You Buy a Piano
Planning to buy a piano can be a lot like shopping for a mattress. They all look similar and do pretty much the same thing. Few will to fall apart during use. …and most cost more than we think they should.
I remember searching for a new mattress. I was looking for an upgrade from my old bed and I had even taken the time to write down the brand and model number of a hotel bed that I found particularly comfortable. In short, I assumed – thanks to my advanced preparation – that my mattress shopping experience would be pretty simple. Looking back, it’s astounding how wrong I was and how similar my shopping experience was to what you might be going through right now as you plan to buy a piano.
Piano Showroom is Now Riverton Piano Company!
Off with the OLD and ON with the… Older?
Attention, Phoenix! It’s “Off with the Old and ON with the… Older?” That’s right! The Phoenix area’s newest piano store is actually the OLDEST piano company in Phoenix! Steinway Piano Showroom of Arizona is now Riverton Piano Company! …and though we have an all-new look and feel (including pianos that have NEVER before been available in Phoenix), we are actually part of the Riverton family – a 50 Year Old firm with stores in THREE different states! Take a look at what is – and is NOT – changing!
