Portable Keyboards

Travelling is not always easy for a keyboardist. A piano can be tricky to pick up and move from one stage to the next, unless you're touring with a big crew—and with some pianos, even that doesn't solve the challenge. The obvious alternative to a full-size piano is an electric keyboard. Ready to go when you are, a portable keyboard is a good solution for practice and performance alike. Above all, your choice of keyboard should match your skill level as well as meet your needs when it comes to features and key count. If you're new to the keyboard, take a look at entry-level models like the 61-key Yamaha PSRE243. Keyboards at this level will offer a strong set of basic features to help you get off the ground, without cluttering up the controls with too many confusing settings.

For intermediate players looking to get a little bit more out of the instrument, Yamaha also makes the PSR E333, a mid-level keyboard sporting 61 keys, and Casio has a good choice as well in the piano-style LK-240. An intermediate keyboard provides a good balance between simplicity and customization, which is perfect for a musician working on developing his or her skills. If you're looking for the most compact keyboard possible, you'll find some models that are designed to be exceptionally portable. The XME Xkey Portable is one great example. This slim, lightweight keyboard slides into a backpack or even a laptop case so you can take it anywhere. If you need something even more portable, check out the FZone 49-key roll-up electric piano. It's small enough to carry in one hand when it's rolled up, but it's loaded with a surprisingly well-rounded feature set.

Both of these keyboards, as well as other, similarly portable, models are perfect to grab and go for impromptu practices or to keep making music when you travel. A good portable keyboard is an ideal travel accessory whether you're taking up the piano as a new hobby or you're an experienced player looking for something quick and easy to carry along. You'll be able to take the music from home out onto the road and anywhere that it leads you.