Setting up a keyboard lab in your classroom can be a great way to give your students access to high-quality instruments and software. Here are a few things to consider when setting up your keyboard lab.

Get the Right Equipment

Whether you’re planning for 1:1 or shared instruments, you’ll need to consider how many keyboards can fit in your space and budget. Also, think about what kind of features you are expecting for keys (touch sensitivity, full-size or mini-keys, speakers or headphones, etc.) Besides keyboards, consider headphones, stands & benches, and pedals.

Plan for Power

Many keyboards will require power so the more outlets can be the better when it comes to labs. However, many keyboards can also be battery-powered (though plan for where you are going to get batteries).  Having a room with extra outlets and set up can help eliminate the need to use extension cords and reduces cable clutter. Most keyboards use about 40 watts each, meaning you can have 2 workstations for every electrical outlet. Make sure you have a plan for power!

Know Your Room Setup

Make sure your students have space to sit at their keyboards with room to walk behind. Students should not be so close that you cannot walk amongst them to check for finger placement or offer assistance. A general rule is a 5′ x 5′ space for each workstation.

Have the Right Curricular Resources

You will likely deal with various skill levels in a classroom setting, so having a lesson plan that keeps all students engaged and motivated is a must. Choose materials that are tailored to group instruction, consider partnering advanced students with beginners, or pair same-level students together.

At West Music, we understand that setting up a piano lab can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer consultative services to help you determine what equipment you need and how to set up your lab for maximum success. We can also create custom quotes with special pricing to help you stay within your budget. With our expertise and dedication to music education, we can help you create a piano lab to enhance your students’ musical education.  Give us a call at 1-800-397-9378 for assistance or contact us for help with your keyboard needs.

Keyboard Terminology

When it comes to portable keyboards and digital pianos, the abundance of features can be overwhelming. As you strive to find the perfect keyboard, it’s important to keep in mind that some entry-level keyboards may not have the necessary features you or your students need to become more proficient. To help you make an informed decision, consider these common features when selecting the right keyboard for your students:

Good: Entry-Level Portable Keyboards

• Full-Size Keys
• Number of Keys
• Split/Duo mode
• Polyphony
• Voices/Tones and Rhythms
• Apps
• MIDI capability

Better: Upgraded Portable Keyboards

• Touch-Sensitivity
• Pitch bend wheel
• More speaker power
• Illuminated keys
• Workstation capability

Best: Digital Pianos

• Substitutes/replace piano
• Size/compact design
• Lower maintenance
• MIDI capability
• Number of Voices/Tones and Rhythms