Are you looking for a good solid upright piano to get a beginner started? or maybe you are someone returning to the piano in later life. If this is you your initial search will most likely be for a piano that will be good enough to inspire but without a huge price tag. This can seem a bit overwhelming at first as you start to research the piano market and realise that the very best pianos do not come cheap. It can feel like a tricky line to negotiate, go too tight with the budget and you risk ending up with a piano that is really off putting for a beginner, on the other hand it is hard to justify spending large amounts of money on something you are not 100% sure will be well used. To that end we have compiled an overview of three of our best starter pianos under 3k, each piano here will provide a solid foundation for a beginner or returner looking for an acoustic upright that will inspire and encourage for many years.
KAWAI K15E
The K15E is Kawais entry level upright piano. This is a compact and tidy upright piano that new pianists will not find overbearing, nor will it dominate the space. The K15E is made from high quality materials featuring a straight grained solid spruce soundboard and 100% wool hammer heads, the build quality helps to create an upright piano with a very good dynamic range with a nice balanced tone. Getting a responsive instrument with a good dynamic range is a key component in keeping new pianists interested and motivated, the Kawai K15E ticks all the right boxes on this front. The K15E also comes with a practice pedal which enables the pianist to lower a felt rail between the hammers and the strings, this means that some practice can be done at a lower volume if preferred. All in all the K15E is a very solid little upright and a great choice for a beginner piano, all Kawai pianos come with a 10 year manufacturers guarantee as standard.
Yamaha E11ON
One of Yamahas more compact upright pianos, manufactured in 1996, this pre-owned Yamaha is in great condition and produces a very welcoming, clear tone. Yamaha pianos are renowned in the industry for being consistent and reliable and this particular upright piano does not disappoint. The action is responsive and consistent across the keyboard, a must for little fingers, here is a piano that will be very rewarding to progress on. Perfect for beginners, this is a great opportunity to purchase a 1996 Yamaha piano at a very reasonable price point.
1984 Chappell Upright Piano
If you are looking for a more traditional English upright, this 1984 Chappell upright piano could be just the thing. Built in England, Chappell pianos have a lovely clear and strong sound without being overly bright or strident. I would describe the tone here as full with a warmth and friendliness that reminds me of a sunny summer day. This piano would provide plenty of support for those just starting out and has character a plenty, the traditional cabinet and mahogany satin finish make this an attractive piece of furniture as well as a good musical instrument. For the modest initial investment, this little upright will provide years of inspiration and enjoyment and is well worth a visit to a piano showroom to view.