Owning an instrument is more than just a great gift, it is a great responsibility. No matter if you’re a beginner or someone who has been playing for years, familiarizing yourself with some basic terms and learning to care for your instrument is the first step to being a good musician.
What to look out for while buying the right keyboard for you
The number of keys: Keyboards are available with various numbers of keys, ranging from 61(most standard keyboards) up to 88(digital pianos), just like on a traditional acoustic piano. Things to consider when deciding how many keys are right for you are space restrictions and the types of music you’ll be playing or if you plan on carrying your instrument around a lot.
Action: You will come across various terms relating to the response of the keybed. Weighted, semi-weighted, synth, and hammer action each offer a different feel. Weighted and semi-weighted actions have a response similar to a traditional piano. Hammer action adds actual mechanical hammers to enhance this response even more. Synth-action is more like an organ; there is no resistance and the keys can be played very quickly.
Multitimbrality: The ability of a keyboard to play different sounds at once (i.e., flute, drums, strings, piano). Multitimbrality should not be confused with polyphony.
Touch or velocity sensitivity: The ability of a keyboard to sense the force or speed with which a key is pressed and create a sound.
Polyphony: The number of sounds a keyboard can generate at one time. Keyboards with extensive polyphonic capabilities and sufficient instrument voices can mimic an entire orchestra.
DIGITAL PIANOS: Digital pianos can be divided into two categories depending on their intended use. Console pianos are generally intended for use in the home, while stage pianos are designed for the performing musician who needs something more portable. The major difference in these categories is the exterior design, as many stages and home pianos share the same electronic “guts” and sounds. Console pianos incorporate not only the sounds of a piano but traditional cabinet design elements as well. Console pianos are an ideal choice for the home
How to maintain your keyboard/digital piano
Now that you’ve chosen the perfect instrument for yourself, it’s time to move on to its maintenance! For keeping it as beautiful and efficient as it first arrived, some work needs to be done.
In the case of a digital piano, the primary thing to focus on would be to choose the perfect location for it. Avoid placing it near doors and windows to prevent excessive sunlight and dust falling on it. If you live in an area which is prone to dust accumulation, it is advisable to use a cover to protect your piano.
Now, you might quickly brush the dust off your digital piano or keyboard occasionally, but what’s essential is taking care of the keys! It would surely function efficiently if you clean it properly on a regular basis. All you need is a soft cloth, liquid soap, water – and you’re ready to go!
Mix the water with gentle liquid soap in a spray bottle, taking care that it contains no harsh chemicals. Spray it on the soft cloth until it’s slightly damp. It’s best to focus on one key at a time, making your way from the back of the key to the front. Apply little pressure, and refrain from swiping across the keyboard.
Stay safe and keep your instruments safe this summer!
Written by Crew Members: Liza Mathew and Tulika Somani
Artwork by Crew Member: Rathnamegha Lingamsetty
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