The Piano, the Keyboard, the Ebony and the Ivory, the 88 keys: Whatever you want to call it, the piano is, if not the most versatile instrument, at least one of the most versatile instruments you can decide to play.
Along with the string instruments, it is one of the only instruments that can all by itself produce both chords and harmonies as well as single-note solos. That is key to its versatility. Like the guitar, it can produce harmonies and accompaniments as well as melodies.
Its range from low notes to high can’t be surpassed, so the possibilities for a huge sonic pallet are immense. When you consider the whole world of electronic keyboards (synthesizers, organs, etc.), the sonic pallet expands exponentially. It is for this reason that we here at Emerson Music believe the piano, or electronic keyboard, is probably one of the best instruments to master, or at least to become familiar with. In fact, many of the best musicians on the planet whose primary instrument is something other than piano will still become familiar enough with keyboard technique because of its versatility and flexibility.
The 88 keys (notes) provide immediate feedback when you are composing or arranging. You can try out different harmonies for your melody, or different melodies for you harmony, and get an immediate impression of how your idea sounds. In that sense the keyboard cannot be surpassed.
The piano is also suited to so many styles of music. The instrument has been around in one form or another for centuries and the repertoire for it is endless.
Classical, Jazz, Boogie-Woogie, Pop, Blues, R&B, Gospel, Rock and Roll; the piano plays a huge roll in all of these styles.
Whatever your genre of choice is, the keyboard has its place in it.
It is our hope here at Emerson Music Online that you will find the resources to get you started on your journey through the wonderful world of the keyboard. Whether you’re a complete novice or already have some facility and simply want to learn a new style, we have researched the best sources for you to get up to speed as quickly and efficiently as possible.