How to Find and Select a Free Piano

How to Find and Select a Used Free Piano

Piano is an investment, and finding a used or free one is a great way to save money while still getting a quality instrument. When selecting a piano there are several things you should take into consideration, regardless if it's a new piano or a used one, such as brand, sound quality and how the action of the keys feels to you personally. For example, some people prefer heavy action while other people prefer light action and this is something you will need to have in mind whether looking for a new or second-hand piano. However, when looking for a used piano, it's not only important to be aware of the standard considerations and where to look, but there are some extra factors you need to be aware of to ensure you're getting a good deal.

Where to look to find an inexpensive or free piano online

1. Pianoadoption.com - The leading online resource when it comes to finding a free piano. They have the most extensive listings, literally hundreds if not thousands, and should be your first go-to site when looking for a piano online that's being given away for free.
2. Facebook Marketplace - A good resource when looking for pianos locally. Often you can find people who are moving and in a hurry to donate their piano to someone that they feel will give it a good new home. In addition to acoustic pianos you may also be able to find free or cheap electric pianos as well.
3. Craigslist - Very similar to Facebook Marketplace. Pianos are heavy and often you will find people in your area who are happy to get rid of their unwanted pianos to avoid having to pay for the moving costs themselves.

Considerations

Before you begin your search, there are several things to consider ahead of time. First of all, how much free space do you have in your home? Do you have a lot of empty space that can fit a grand piano, or do you only have enough room for a smaller upright piano? Or would you prefer a digital piano that could be integrated with your computer setup as well as allow you to practice late at night or early in the morning by using headphones?

Even though it's possible to find a good piano for free, you will still almost certainly need to pay for the moving fee to transport it and therefore it is ideal to find one as close to your home as possible. Be sure you are already familiar with some experienced professional piano movers in your area and prepared to pay for the cost of moving as well as tuning it after it arrives.

What to look for when examining the piano

1. Age and Brand: Look for pianos that are well-known and have been in production for many years. Manufacturers like Yamaha, Steinway, and Kawai are reliable options that are known for their high-quality craftsmanship. The age of the piano will also give you an idea if it's worth the investment so be sure to ask the current owner how many years old it is. However, a newer piano doesn't necessarily mean better. In many cases an older piano might still be superior and occasionally you might find a hidden gem that's still in great shape after many years.
2. Condition: A good used piano should be free of cracks and other obvious damage to the frame and soundboard. While cracks in the soundboard are common in older pianos and often don't affect tuning stability, they can cause buzzing or affect tone — so factor in the cost of repair. What truly prevents a piano from holding a tune is a worn or cracked pinblock, so inspect that carefully. The keys should also be in good condition, with no chips or cracks, and the hammers should be in good shape, with no broken strings.
3. Sound: When trying out a piano, pay attention to the sound it produces. A good piano should have a clear, resonant tone, with no noticeable buzzes or dead notes. Listen to how the sound changes when you play different keys and make sure the volume is even throughout the entire range. Also, if the piano appears to be drastically out of tune that might be an indication of how well it was (or wasn't) cared for and how well it can hold a tuning. However, if a piano needs tuning that shouldn't be a dealbreaker overall. Try to also inquire with the current owner about how often they had it maintained.
4. Playability: The action of the keys and pedals should be smooth and responsive. Try playing a variety of music, including a chromatic scale, and make sure the piano feels comfortable and is easy to play and that all of the keys are in good working order.
5. Price: It's important to keep in mind that a used or free piano may still require repairs, so factor in the cost of any necessary work when determining if it's a good deal.

Seek the opinion of an experienced piano technician

So you've done some research, narrowed your search down to a few listings and maybe found a nice piano nearby that you are interested in transporting to your home. Now is the time to consult with an experienced piano technician. Even though this results in another added cost, ultimately they are the people who know best and can tell you whether the piano is really worth it, which can save you a lot of money and hassle down the line. So be sure to set aside some of your budget for this and don't skip this final and most important step in the process.

In conclusion, buying a used or free piano can be a great way to save money, but it's important to choose wisely to ensure you get a quality instrument that meets your needs. By taking the time to consider these key factors, you can find a great piano that will provide years of enjoyment and musical fulfillment.

Sources

• Austin Piano Service - Pianos with Tuning Stability Problems: The Causes and What to Do About It

Already found your instrument and want to learn to play the piano? See our article on how to find the right music teacher for you or browse our selection of online piano teachers.