Keyboard

There is a bewildering array of Electronic Keyboards. In their most basic form they can generate a simple sound, whilst in their most complex they can power computers, act as multitrack recording machines, and virtually play themselves. The basic things to look for are:

• Key size - full size keys are essential if you intend to use the keyboard as a substitute for practising the piano. This will cause difficulties for small hands, but the various electronic features of the keyboard can lead to very satisfying results.
• How many octaves? - 5 octaves are really a minimum to give a good range. A 'fingered chord' facility should be considered necessary.
• Rhythm accompaniments - this gives an accompaniment to play with.

More advanced features will include:

• MIDI capability - used for linking up to other keyboards or computers
• Sequencing - a built in recorder which can build up layers of sounds (most professionals will link to a computer via MIDI rather than using built-in sequencers, but they can be fun to play with!)

The more you pay, the better the quality of sounds and the more comprehensive the range of rhythm accompaniments. Keyboards can be great fun especially if you develop the technical knowledge to exploit them to the full. A thorough knowledge of sophisticated 'high-tech' keyboards can be gained by many players and opens up many playing opportunities including jazz and rock bands. Similarly, a keyboard with 'general midi' facilities can be put to good use in composing, arranging and printing music using a computer with suitable software.

A keyboard will never replace a piano. Although the sounds generated by some are very realistic, they lack the resonance and depth of the real thing.

Starting age

• As early as an interest is shown.

Cost

• New approx £100.
• If the instrument is to be used as a training ground for the piano, make sure that the keyboard has full-sized keys.
• A "fingered chord" facility is vital.

Hire

• Not available from Kent Music.

Running Costs

• Batteries or mains current.

Suitability

• A very small hand spread will limit a player's capability but small size keyboards are available.

Where to play

• Keyboards can be great fun to play on your own but there are increasing oppurtunities to play with others. Kent Music run very succesful "Keyboard Orchestra" workshops and courses where large numbers of players rehease and perform together.
• If you gain a sophisticated knowledge of the more high-tech keyboards you can become an asset in any rock group.
• The keyboard is also useful as a general introduction to music and therefore any other instrument.