Here are some responses to commonly asked questions about pianos.

Do you need a piano at home if you are having lessons?

Yes, to make progress, a piano is needed for home practice.

What kind of piano is best? 

An acoustic piano - upright or grand works by striking strings with hammers, and the quality of the sound or tone varies with the type of touch and movement used to press the keys. Therefore, a properly tuned and working acoustic piano is the best option for home practice. 

Are acoustic pianos expensive?

No, there are serviceable and relatively inexpensive acoustic pianos available. Purchasing a piano is similar to buying a car as there is a wide range of prices, brands, ages, conditions and potential for unseen problems. To avoid purchasing a problematic piano and incurring repair or replacement costs, it's best to either buy a piano from a dealer who offers a guarantee or have a privately advertised piano inspected by a knowledgeable person, such as a piano tuner. 

Would a digital piano be suitable?

Consider a digital piano if you need something slightly smaller or less heavy to move. The drawbacks are that digital pianos sound and feel different; they respond differently to touch and cannot make the same variety of tones. Check for fully weighted, full-sized keys.

How often should acoustic pianos be tuned?

Moving an acoustic piano doesn't make it go out of tune, but the difference in humidity and temperature between the old and new environments will, after a period of adjustment. Pianos go out of tune as the seasons change; even if you don't use central heating, the difference in temperature and humidity between summer and winter will cause it to expand and contract. Pianos should to be tuned annualy, though some people prefer to have them tuned slightly more often.

What about a keyboard or just something to get started?

A keyboard has sprung keys which are light to the touch, making it difficult to develop the technique you would use for piano keys. If you practice on a keyboard, playing a piano in lessons can feel strange and difficult. It is best to avoid a keyboard unless it is for a very short time, as it will probably hold back progress, as would a piano with other problems. If a keyboard is needed for a brief period, it's crucial to have full-sized keys and touch response.