Are Piano and Keyboard the same thing?

Firstly, let's talk about what a piano is. A piano is an acoustic instrument, meaning that it produces sound through physical vibrations. It works like this: when you press down a key on a piano, a hammer inside the instrument strikes a steel string, causing it to vibrate and produce sound. The sound then resonates through the wooden soundboard and out of the piano.

Now, a keyboard, on the other hand, is an electronic instrument. Instead of physical strings, a keyboard uses digital sound samples to produce sound. A 'sample' is a pre-recorded digital sound of an instrument or sound effect that is stored in the keyboard's memory. When you press a key on a keyboard, an electrical signal is sent to a computer chip, which then plays the sound sample through speakers. 

One of the most noticeable differences between pianos and keyboards is the way they feel and play. Pianos have a weighted key mechanism, which means that the keys are heavier and require more force to press down. This is because the key is connected to a hammer mechanism that strikes the string inside the piano. The weighted keys on a piano give the player a greater sense of control and dynamics, allowing for more expression in their playing, and therefore a more engaging experience for both player and audience.

Keyboards, on the other hand, typically have lighter, less responsive keys that are often made of plastic. When you press a key on a keyboard, you're not actually physically striking anything - you're simply pressing down on a switch. This can make it more difficult to achieve the same level of expression and dynamics that you can get on a piano.

Another difference between pianos and keyboards is their sound quality. Pianos produce a rich, complex sound that can vary depending on factors such as the age and condition of the instrument, the type of wood used in the construction, and the acoustics of the room. Keyboards, on the other hand, produce a consistent sound that is not affected by external factors. However, keyboards are capable of producing a wide range of sounds beyond just the piano sound, and often come with a variety of settings and features that can be used to create different sounds.

Finally, let's talk about the cost and portability of these instruments. Pianos are generally more expensive and less portable than keyboards. Pianos are large and heavy, and require a significant amount of space. They also require regular maintenance, such as tuning, which can be costly. Keyboards, on the other hand, are more affordable and portable. They're lightweight and easy to move around, and they don't require as much maintenance as a piano.

So, to sum it up, pianos and keyboards are both musical instruments, but they work and sound differently. Each have their own advantages. Pianos are rich, beautiful, timeless instruments, and nothing really compares to the feeling of playing your favourite song on a beautiful piano you love. Keyboards may lack that 'magic' of a piano, but they come with a bunch of different sounds, which can often spark a different kind of creativity. They also have a port for headphones (which is great when learning in a multi-person household), and they're practically more feasible to move around and travel with to gigs and jam sessions. Ultimately, whether you choose a piano or a keyboard depends on your personal preferences, needs, and budget. I recommend getting both, because each has their own value!! :)

Finding the right piano or keyboard for you is like finding a life partner. You HAVE to try them out in person. You have to try a few different ones, go on a few dates, and find which one you'd like to build a relationship with. Because you are talking about more than just pieces of wood/plastic/metal. You're looking at the vehicle which is going to transport you beyond the boundaries of your own universe. It HAS to be an instrument you connect with, feel, and love.