Keyboards refer to a variety of electronic instruments played by means of a set of piano-like keys, often connected to a synthesizer or amplifier. The synthesizer allows the player to create the sounds of the piano and other instruments – percussion, woodwinds, brass and strings. Because pianos are large, heavy, non-portable instruments that require a major financial investment, keyboards have become an extremely popular alternative to the piano. Electronics has taken over the musical landscape and given even those players with modest means the ability to create their own unique music.

While some keyboards have 88 keys, like the piano, others are narrower with fewer keys. Although the digital relative can't produce an exact piano sound, touch and response, keyboards have come a long way in recent years. Their sounds are amazingly close to that of a piano, with many using actual sound samples from acoustic grand pianos. Keyboards are available in a wide range, from basic beginner keyboards to sophisticated professional models with authentic piano action.

There are many advantages to owning a keyboard. They generally cost less than a piano. They stay in tune. They are portable, plus headphones can be used. The most expensive ones offer touch-sensitive and weighted keys that give them a feel quite similar to an acoustic piano. Keyboards are a smart alternative for families who move often, don't have sufficient space, may be renting, or who live on an upper floor where moving a piano might be difficult. They serve as an excellent precursor to buying a piano. Students are often interested in learning popular music and enjoy the additional instrumental and sound effects of a digital keyboard.

Children can begin learning on a keyboard as early as age 5 or 6. Generally, your child should be able recognize numbers one through five and understand the correlation between the numbers on the page and the finger numbers. Your child should be able to sit still for about 10 to 15 minutes (expecting more is unrealistic) while focusing on having fun at the piano. Studies have proven that children can dramatically improve their reasoning abilities by taking piano lessons. Research shows that children who study music demonstrate superior reading skills, enhanced math abilities, higher levels of creativity and accordingly, better grades.

Jazz greats Chick Corea, Thelonious Monk and Herbie Hancock are keyboardist names you may recognize. Elton John, Billy Joel and Bruce Hornsby are well-known in popular music, as are Freddie Mercury, Keith Emerson, Rick Wakeman, Keiko Matsui, Yanni and Alicia Keys.