There is no better time than the New Year to begin piano lessons. If you have been thinking of enrolling your child in piano lessons, dont wait because piano lessons have valuable educational benefits for young children. Parents know this, but the most common excuse given is we dont have room in our home for a piano. This is an old fashioned excuse, because modern pianos come in all sizes. Just review the list of options below and make your decision today.

1. 76 key Portable Keyboard with Stand with Bench - Not a full size piano, but your beginner can practice on this for several years. Its light weight, you can set it up anywhere, store it in the coat closet if you have to, and easily take it to grandmas house. Get one with touch-sensitivity. I recommend a Yamaha because of the beautiful tone they have. Invest in a $20 portable bench also, because posture is especially important for beginners.

2. Full-size Portable Keyboard with Stand with Bench - This is an 88 key, full piano keyboard, but without the case. You just set it up on a stand anywhere, anytime. It is heavier, but still very portable and takes up a minimum amount of space. The Yamahas and Casio PX100 are great for beginners.

3. Acoustical Pianos Now Come in All Sizes - Dont be afraid to explore this possibility. You can find a size that is not much bigger than a full-size keyboard. It wont be portable, but it also won't be the two-ton, back-breaking monster to move that your great grandmother had either. And it won't take up nearly the space. Acoustical pianos can also be rented to give you a chance to try it in your home first.

4. A Beautiful Grand Piano Cant be Matched for Playing Enjoyment and Artistry - If youre looking for a family heirloom your children can pass along to your grandkids make this investment. Grand pianos hold their value if you care for them and can even increase in value. Grand pianos also come in different sizes from 5 feet to 9 feet, as well as any wood tone, lacquered finish, and style to match your home dcor.

Start your New Year by purchasing a piano thats right for your home, and you and your children will enjoy the benefits for years to come.

Cynthia VanLandingham

Cynthia VanLandingham's Piano Adventure Bears Music Education Resources create an exciting musical adventure for children ages 5 to 11. Visit PianoAdventureBears.com for free samples of her Piano Adventure Story Books and piano resources for children. She is also the author of The Wonder Guide to Creativity.

Cynthia has been teaching piano in Tallahassee, Florida for 20 years and is the owner of TallyPiano & Keyboard Studios. She is a member of the American College of Musicians National Guild of Piano Teachers, the President of TallyPiano Enterprises, LLC, and a graduate of the Florida State University College of Education. Visit her website at TallyPiano.com to download her original, uplifting piano compositions, including "The Potter's Wheel." While you're there subscribe to her free internet newsletter, Piano Matters, and read the Wonder Guide to Creativity Online.

When you subscribe, you'll receive instant access to the Piano Article Archives, and Free Piano Sheet Music. These articles are full of helpful ideas and tips for piano students and parents. Email your questions or ideas for new articles and Cynthia will respond right away.