As well as understanding the importance of the A440 concert pitch tuning standard, Thornton Pianos have stressed that it's equally crucial to recognise the importance of the touch and feel of your piano when learning to play.

Not many people are aware that all piano manufacturers design and build their pianos to suit all players, from beginners to accomplished pianists, throughout their range – and as such, it's vital to consider the student's age and competence when buying the instrument.

Young students from six to ten years of age require a touch that is light and responsive, due in part to their smaller hand size, to encourage them in the early days of their musical journey. Other more advanced students and professional players require instruments with more resistance, as they hone and develop their skills, due to the greater finger muscle strength and technique.

The aspect of a suitable touch for the individual player is often overlooked in the selection of a piano – in favour of brand, size, shape and colour, and the misconception that your first piano should take the student from the first lesson to diploma level.

Remember: it is never a negative choice to upgrade your piano – rather, it means your technical ability is developing. Playing the wrong type of piano, or a poorly maintained piano, can negatively impact a student’s interest when they begin learning to play – through no fault of their own.

Thornton Pianos advise that you should never accept a piano described as “good enough for a beginner" if it is not tuned to A440 and fully functioning – as the correct standards are designed to aid players at all stages of their musical journey.

Thornton Pianos is an Irish family-run business that has been supplying new and reconditioned pianos nationwide for over 50 years. Renowned for their attention to detail, and ensuring that every piano they work on in-house meets the highest standards, Thornton Pianos are delighted to bring the excellence of Ritmüller pianos to their showroom and stages across the country.

For more online advice from Thornton Pianos, visit thorntonpianos.ie.