Which piano to buy?

[possom46]

Just had a call from a pupils parent who is looking to buy a new piano. I teach three of the children, the eldest is taking grade 4, next one just took grade 2 and the youngest preliminary. She has seen 4 pianos which are in her price range and the children like. Does anyone have any recommendations out of the 4 please.

Bentley (35 years old)
Zender (10 years old)
Schreiber (don't know the age)
Yamaha (brand new)

Thanks in advance

[sonatainfsharp]

You can't make an ideal decision without seeing them for yourself. I have played concert Stienways that weren't cared for and were crap, and I have played new Young Chang grands that were *almost* good. My favorite brand, for example, is Kawaii, but my *specific* Kawii is a hunk of junk for what I would look for in a piano. But, it would a spectacular option for young kids taking lessons, etc.

I don't like to promote Yamaha, but for practical purposes, I would go with the Yamaha just because the kids can go from one Yamaha upright at their home to another Yamaha grand for a recital and they will feel the same to a kid because of the way Yamaha builds pianos. I think this is really the only brand this school of thought applies to. As experienced pianists, though, we all know better in the long run. Plus the Yamaha is brand new-my point is that it will give the family a clean start to learning to care for a piano.

[Laurana]

I would say buying a piano is just like buying a car. If you can afford a new one you are always better off. Otherwise advise them to follow their instinct. In case they don’t have any feeling and affinity for pianos,  tell them to try to buy one to match their furniture. ( or budget ?)

[possom46]

Thanks for your replies. They have now bought a 7 year old Bentley, it's got a nice sound, responsive touch and a lovely piece of furniture so everyones happy 

[gee]

kawaiis are definately good, i think you ought to go see the piano's for yourself, otherwise, i'd say a yamaha would be good for begginers