Side-by-side comparison based on expert reviews and community consensus.
Bastien Primer A Lesson and Theory Books
Best Alternative Method BookCasio PX-S3100
Best Digital PianoPrice
$8-$15
$500-$700
Summary
A structured, teacher-approved curriculum that pairs lesson and theory books from day one. Piano teachers on Reddit specifically recommend it for young beginners who need short, achievable goals.
A slim, full-weighted 88-key digital piano that gives young learners a real piano feel without the cost of an acoustic. Recommended in r/piano as a serious starter instrument worth growing into.
Pros
- Pairs lesson book with theory book for well-rounded early learning
- Structured progression from Primer A → Primer B → Level 1
- Recommended by piano teachers specifically for young students needing achievable milestones
- Widely available and affordable
- Full 88 weighted keys teach proper finger technique from the start
- Slim, space-saving design fits in most homes
- Grows with the child — no need to upgrade for years
- Recommended directly in r/piano for a young child's first instrument
Cons
- More structured/traditional than Faber, which some young kids find less engaging
- Best used with a teacher rather than for self-guided learning
- Less colorful/playful visual design compared to Faber series
- Higher price point than toy keyboards or entry-level options
- May be overkill if the child loses interest quickly
- Availability can vary by region — not always easy to find in stores
Our take
Bastien is the other name that keeps coming up alongside Faber in piano teacher communities — if your child's teacher prefers a more theory-forward approach from the start, this is the one to grab.
Don't waste money on a toy keyboard — the Casio PX-S3100 is the kind of instrument a 4-year-old can start on and still be playing at 14. Weighted keys matter for building proper technique from day one.
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