Best Keyboard Instruments

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The Yamaha Corporation is known worldwide for quite an interesting variety of products including motor cycles, home appliances, electronics, auto pieces, I.T. materials, and musical instruments! When I first tried Yamaha instruments, I was a little leary. Think about it, a motor cycle company making my instrument on which I make my livelyhood? Then I did some research.

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The company started with musical instruments all the way back in 1887 with a gentleman from Japan named Torakusu Yamaha who began by making repairs to a reed organ. As the company developed, it came out with improved organs and Japan's first piano in the late 1800's. Yamaha spread into the world by winning an Honarary Grand Prize at St. Louis World's Fair in 1904 for its newest keyboard of the time. Since then, Yamaha has "grown to become one of the best-loved manufacturers of musical instruments in the world", and has "grown to become the world's largest manufacturer of musical instruments".

Yamaha continues to follow their policy of "kando" that they started so long ago. "Kando is a Japanese word for the simultaneous feeling of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that people experience when they encounter something of exceptional value." I know that is what they have given to me. The four Yamaha instruments in our home are our favorites due to sound quality, precision, and quality! I think you'll enjoy them, too!

My keyboard is a slightly different model being older, but it is very similar. In fact, the P-140 has more features than mine does! It is amazing! With its touch sensibility, I feel like I'm playing a real piano, more so than on any other keyboard I've played. The sound can be breathtaking, and although I prefer the actual piano tone color, other sound options are included for you to use. The dynamic range is broad, and the front speakers carry my sound out to my audiences.

I have another Yamaha keyboard in my music studio that is about 25 years old. I've enjoyed it all these years without any problems or the need for repair. In fact, the only reason I purchased the new keyboard was to have an 88 key instrument instead of just 60.

Parents will only need to purchase this one instrument to be able to take their child from beginner to professional with Yamaha keyboard quality and durability. (Unquoted text is my personal reviews!)

Yamaha MM8 88 Key Synthesizer Keyboard: "The Yamaha MM8 Synthesizer delivers all the musical power and creative control you need and a whole lot more. Taking its sounds from the highly popular pro-level Motif series instruments, the MM8 has an enormous variety of dynamic, authentic voices to help you create and perform in virtually any style of music. The MM8 gives you total control over your sound, letting you dynamically change sonic textures as you play with real-time tweakable knobs. Also built-in are special Patterns that provide full instrumental backing - drums, bass and chords - to accompany your live performance and song creation. Yamaha MM8 Features Super-high-quality sounds Tons of real-time control Dynamic music creation tools - including automatic Pattern and Arpeggiator generators Performance Memory for instantfull-panel setting changes Versatile song recording features - with eight normal tracks and one Pattern track Convenient, easy-to-use data storage solutions The MM8 has 418 voices and 22 drum kits on board, all based on the dynamic, realistic sounds of the advanced Motif series synthesizers. These exceptionally high-quality sounds range from authentic acoustic instruments to wild, unique and in-your-face synth voices. An extra set of GM voices is built into the instrument as well, giving you all you need to play back songs recorded in that popular format. With so many voices to choose from, you might think it's difficult to select the ones you need. Not so. The convenient category search function lets you choose the type of instrument you want to play, organ, guitar, synth, lead, strings, whatever, then select the specific Voice. All your favorite sounds are right at your fingertips, ready to play when you are. Piano-Like Expressiveness - Graded Hammer Keyboard Drawing on its long experience (over 100 years!) in crafting fine acoustic pianos, Yamaha has equipped the MM8 with a remarkably expressive GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) keyboard. If you're a piano player, you'll notice and appreciate the difference as soon as you touch the keys - the instrument feels and responds like a grand piano! The GHS keys are weighted heavier on the lower notes and gradually become lighter as you play up the keyboard, giving you detailed expressive control over the sound. Patterns For Jamming Want some instant inspiration? The MM8 has a full set of patterns that give you powerful rhythmic backing in a wide variety of music styles including Hip Hop, Rap, R&B, Dance, Ambient, Pop, Rock, Jazz and even World styles. These patterns are just what you need to get your music moving in the right direction. What's more, these patterns are as close to the real thing as you can get. patterns that stay solidly in the groove, but never sound mechanical. Drum loops with a truly human feel that dance and float around the beat, yet remain firmly."

Yamaha DGX630 88-Key Portable Hammer-Action Keyboard: "The DGX630 is Yamaha's most piano like ever, with weighted graded hammer actions, ultra-real feel and more. All the best sounds are available at the push of button and recording virtuoso performances is simple with built-in recorder. The Yamaha Education Suite and USB connectivity add functionality."

Yamaha YPG635 88-Key Portable Grand Keyboard: "The Yamaha YPG635 88-Key Portable Grand Piano is an affordably priced 88-key weighted graded hammer action Keyboard that boasts an authentic grand piano-like touch. The YPG635 features many more voices and styles than previous models along with brand new DSP effects for improved rotary organ sounds. The expanded 64-note polyphony adds to the lush sound palette especially when using the on board sequencer."

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Yamaha PKBX2 Adjustable Double X Keyboard Stand: "The Yamaha PKBX2 Keyboard Stand is a x style adjustable stand. It features 6 lockable heights and features double braced sides for a sturdier design than most keyboard stands. Yamaha PKBX2 Features Sturdy Steel Construction Adjustable Height Folds Flat for Easy Storage Quick and Easy to Assemble."

I use a portable, foldable stand when I am performing on my keyboard. Portable stands are very useful! They may be used at home to help you adjust to proper height. Their light weight and foldability makes them more convenient to carry to gigs than the wood ones.

At home I use a much more solid wood stand because it is durable and attractive. The one I have is black. It has a solid back and two side panels which easily screw together and apart. The pieces attach under the keyboard to create a very beautiful structure to hold your keyboard. When I need to take it with me, I simply unscrew the keyboard from the stand and pack. The wooden frame stays together.

SKB Padded Rolling Keyboard Bag: "SKB Rolling Keyboard bags offer heavy duty protection in a light weight soft case These padded rolling bags make premium keyboard luggage, featuring molded rubber handles, 3 storage compartments, reinforced corners, and a 2 inch thick foam padded lid to protect the key surface. Other features include folding hard sides for easy packing and shipping, skate wheels, metal hardware, molded runners and a shoulder hands free strap on the back. Available in 61, 76 or 88-key models SKB KB61: 45.00 x 17 x 6.5 inches (LxWxD), 12.6 lbs. SKB KB76: 47.50 x 14 x 6.5 inches (LxWxD), 13.4 lbs SKB KB88: 57.00 x 18 x 9.0 inches (LxWxD), 18.0 lbs."



Gator GKB88 Keyboard Gig Bag: The Gator GKB88 88 Note Keyboard Gig Bag is the ultimate in affordable solutions for the gigging musician on the go. These bags include adjustable internal straps to keep your keyboard secure inside and are constructed of durable 600 Denier Nylon with 20 MM padding. The large pockets and zippers make it easy to stow your accessories and the included shoulder strap and comfort handles give you multiple options for easy transport. Features: Fits 88 note keyboards Heavy-duty 600-Denier nylon construction Adjustable padded secure straps to hold keyboard in place during transport Large #10 Zippers Reinforced comfort carry handles Exterior accessory pocket."

My carrying case has been a lifesaver! The inside is thickly padded to prevent damage when traveling. It has outside pockets for the music rest, cords, and pedal. I just slide it into the backseat of my mini van. A friend of mine sticks hers into her truck! Two handles are provided ~ one for regular carrying, and another for over the shoulder (makes it easier when you have to carry other equipment at the same time). The wheels give great relief to take some of the weight off of you. I can't imagine going back and forth to places without a case llike this! I know I can transport it without any fear of damage!

Yamaha BB1 Padded Keyboard Bench: "The Yamaha BB1 Padded Wood Bench features quality wood construction. It's very affordable, yet elegant for seasoned pianists. The thick, padded seat features a leather touch and strategic air vent offering preservation against normal wear, and is beautiful when paired with any digital piano or keyboard."

This seat is so comfy for many hours of practice! It is light weight but very sturdy. The height may be adjusted to fit the size of the player. (My young piano students love when I adjust it higher for them to reach the keys better!) The bench is easy to transport, also. The legs and seat section fold flat to store, carry, or fit in your vehicle with ease.

Yamaha FC4 Piano Style Sustain Pedal: "For your Yamaha electronic keyboard with an input jack labeled 'SUSTAIN,' the FC4 model is used in the same manner the sustain pedal on an acoustic piano is used. Designed to work and feel just like an acoustic piano's sustain pedal, its specially designed rubber bottom grips the floor and stays put while you play. The FC4 can also be utilized as an FS controller for synthesizers, tone modules and drum machines. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the performance of this model! Features 6-foot cable 1/4' phone plug."

Need help organizing your sheet music, choir music, music worksheets, etcetera? Why not place them in binders? Plastic slide covers protect music from tears and spills while keeping your music from getting lost and in order! Use the custom button to label each binder for different uses - choir music, wedding music, church music, band, orchestra, solos - or personalize it with your name or musical group in your choice of colors and fonts! Add a label to the spine to help you find things easier on your music shelf!



Piano Keys Speaker Doodle by Joyful_Songs
Piano Keyboard Binder ~ Choir Music Binder
Piano Music Binder

Hopefully you've found a keyboard that you like. What do you do next? If you have never played before, I would suggest locating a piano / keyboard teacher at least to get started. There are many good habits to start that will aid you after playing a while and bad habits that should be avoided right from the start. A good teacher can get you going on the right track.

You can check with local music stores or music departments of colleges, but I think the best way to find an excellent teacher is to discuss it with friends and relatives who already take lessons. They can give you a review of the types of books, styles, personality, expectations, and requirements their teacher uses in order to help you pick the right teacher for you.

You may even want to talk with the person over the phone or meet them before starting. Finding the right teacher is definitely a huge plus. There are several excellent teachers, but sometimes styles and disciplines are more fitting to one person than another.

When a potential student calls me, we usually have a long conversation including my qualifications and goals for each of us. I try to find what it is that they want to accomplish by taking lessons, and I inform them of the ways I will guide them. We usually then meet for one sample lesson before making a commitment. Most of the time it works out, but other times I have to admit that there is another teacher better suited for their needs and personality.

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I really enjoy finding new music to play. These two sheet music suppliers carry a vast amount of every style music. You are pretty certain to find what you are looking for. Gift certificates are available at both if you are looking for a present to give a musician but don't know what to get.

Yamaha NP-30 Digital Keyboard: "The NP-30 Portable Grand delivers Yamaha digital piano sound and simplicity in a new lightweight, compact design like nothing else you've seen... all at a price point you won't believe. Its super slim design and minimal weight of 12 pounds makes it the most compact performer in the digital piano family of instruments. And 6 "AA" batteries (not included) are all you need to power up and start playing immediately.Graded Soft Touch Action Because of its similarity to acoustic pianos, a graded action is one of the primary features sought by pianists in their digital instruments. While technically a non-weighted action, the new Graded Soft-Touch keyboard is the first of its kind bringing different levels of resistance without the extra weight of moving hammers the key contributor to the NP-30's fighting weight of only 12 pounds. The end result is a very playable action that will appeal to pianists who want to take their music anywhere. AWM Stereo Piano Samples Advanced Wave Memory is Yamaha's exclusive format for reproducing sounds digitally. And stereo means that Yamaha used two microphones to record the piano you hear on every key of the NP-30 adding even more realism to the sound you hear. Built-in Metronome Every pianist knows that practice makes perfect. And one tool they've all used to keep time when practicing is the metronome. The NP-30 has a built-in metronome and even has multiple time signatures (3/4, 4/4, 6/8) to choose from. Plus the numeric key function lets you set the tempo to the exact marking you need.Dual Voice Mode Choose any two Voices you'd like to combine and play them both at once. Dual Voice mode makes this easier than ever. Simply hold down the Voice Select button and select the two you'd like to hear for a variety of combinations. Powered by 6 "AA" size batteries (not included) or optional PA-150 power supply (#330238)."

Yamaha S90XS 88 Weighted Key Synthesizer Keyboard: "The S90XS combines the sounds of the Motif XS, a handcrafted S6 piano, and the ease of use of a stage piano. Features like a Balanced Hammer action, combo input jack for adding vocals and guitars and USB record/playback make it perfect for stage or studio. The compact design of the S90XS is portable and road-ready. The S90XS also lets you quickly create your own Performances, with the amazingly fast Performance Creator feature. With extensive Controller functions, itâ%u20AC%u2122s also the perfect companion for your computer music production system. Yamaha S90XS Features: The sounds of the Motif XS plus a huge new S6 handcrafted grand piano sample 88 note Yamaha Balanced Hammer weighted action New Performance Creator for instant splits, layers and drum performances 4 knobs, 16 backlit LEDs and tons of buttons for direct hands on control ¼ inch/XLR Combo jack A/D input (with front panel controls) for adding vocals and guitars Direct to USB Stereo Audio record/ playback (plus 18 minutes of internal flash memory) The Yamaha S Series The S Series features all the Voices, Performances, arps and Virtual Circuit Modeling effects found on the flagship MOTIF XS Music Production Synthesizer. In addition, we've added a completely new, luscious piano sound of a whopping 100 megabytes, for an expanded total of 456 MB of instrument samples. Foremost among these new piano sounds are the new samples taken from Yamaha's worldrenowned S6 concert grand piano. These fully capture the richly textured sound of that wonderfully expressive instrument, and provide a warm concert grand piano sound unavailable on any other keyboard. For variation, the MOTIF XS piano based on a Yamaha CFIIIS is also available. The S90XS has a wealth of pro-level effectsâ%u20AC"including a special set of VCM (Virtual circuitry Modeling) effect programs that authentically emulate analog circuitry, realistically recreating the uniquely warm characteristics of vintage processing gear. Streamline Your Performance The S90XS also lets you quickly and conveniently create your own custom Performances, with the amazingly fast and easy Performance Creator feature. It's never been easier to select a Voice, then quickly program Layers and Splitsâ%u20AC"even assigning a Drum Voice complete with arps to create your perfect Performance. The S90XS gives you comprehensive, easy-to-use controls for your Performances as wellâ%u20AC"such as Octave and Transpose buttons for quickly changing the pitch, and a Tap Tempo button that lets you easily change the tempo of Arpeggio or MIDI sequence playback on the fly. You can assign virtually any parameter on the instrument to one of the Assignable Function buttons (using the S90XS V."