Upright pianos
Strings run vertically, so they fit against a wall. They're the most common piano in Australian homes, schools and studios.
- Console and studio sizes
- Taller uprights have a fuller tone
- Wide range of new and used
Pianos in Australia
From first lessons to the concert grand.
A plain-English guide to pianos in Australia: upright, grand and digital pianos, the brands sold here, learning and exams, and what to check before you buy.
The main types of piano
Choosing a piano usually comes down to space, budget and how you'll play. These are the main types you'll find in Australian showrooms and on the second-hand market.
Grand pianos
Horizontal strings and a faster action give more control and a richer sound. They need more space and a bigger budget.
- Baby grands, from about 1.5 m
- Parlour and salon grands
- Concert grands, around 2.7 m
Digital pianos
Sampled piano sound with weighted keys. They never need tuning and have headphone sockets for quiet practice.
- Portable and cabinet models
- Recording and app connectivity
- Great for apartments
Hybrid and silent pianos
Hybrids pair a real piano action with digital sound. Silent pianos are acoustic pianos that can switch to headphone mode.
- Acoustic feel
- Quiet practice at any hour
- Higher price than digital
Piano brands sold in Australia
Australian buyers can choose from Japanese, European, American and Chinese makers, from entry-level uprights to hand-built concert grands. Australia also has its own piano-making history.
Japanese
YamahaKawaiRolandCasioKorg
European
BösendorferBechsteinBlüthnerFazioliSchimmelGrotrianNord
American
Steinway & SonsBostonEssex
Australian
Stuart & SonsBeale
Stuart & Sons builds pianos in Australia, including models with extended keyboards. Beale pianos were made in Sydney for much of the 20th century and are still common on the second-hand market. Brand names are trademarks of their owners. This site isn't affiliated with any manufacturer or dealer.
Learning the piano in Australia
Many Australian students learn with a private teacher and follow a graded exam syllabus. Exams are optional, but they give clear goals and a recognised record of progress.
Find a teacher
Look for a teacher whose style suits you. Many are members of state music teacher associations, and lessons are usually weekly, at a studio, at school or online.
Graded exams
The Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB) runs graded exams from Preliminary to Grade 8. Trinity College London exams are also widely available in Australia.
Diplomas and beyond
After Grade 8, students can go on to performance and teaching diplomas, and then tertiary study at a university or conservatorium.
Syllabuses, grade names and requirements change over time. Check with the examining body or your teacher for the current details.
Buying a piano in Australia
Whether it's a first digital piano or a restored grand, these are the checks worth making.
Acoustic or digital
Acoustic pianos have the richest sound and touch but need space, tuning and care. Digital pianos are smaller, quieter and lower maintenance.
Get a technician's inspection
Before you buy a second-hand piano, have a qualified piano technician check the soundboard, bridges, tuning pins, action and hammers. Repairs can cost more than the piano.
Mind the climate
Australia's humidity and heat can be hard on pianos. Keep yours away from windows, heaters and air-conditioner vents. A piano used to a different climate may need time to settle.
Budget for tuning
Most acoustic pianos need tuning at least once or twice a year. A piano that hasn't been tuned in years may need several tunings to bring it back to pitch.
Use professional movers
Pianos are heavy and easily damaged. Specialist piano movers have the equipment and insurance. Factor stairs and tight access into the quote.
Consider renting first
Many Australian piano stores offer rental or rent-to-buy plans. They're a good way for beginners to start without a big upfront cost.
Australian business & domain
This business & domain may be for sale
The pianos.com.au business and domain may be available together. It's a short, memorable name that suits a piano retailer, manufacturer, teacher network, tuning service or music publication.
If you are interested, contact sales@pianos.com.au.