For a number of amateur pianists, owning a full-sized concert grand piano would be impractical and extremely expensive. An upright piano might address a few logistical or economical concerns, but few uprights have the tone and dynamic range of a grand piano. The solution for both musicians and their families may be a baby grand piano. A baby grand piano is usually compact enough to fit in a large den or living room, but large enough to provide the fuller sounds of a concert grand piano. Finding a suitable baby grand piano, however, can be a challenge without doing a little legwork or research first.

Perhaps the most obvious place to buy a baby grand piano is at a local music store. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that not all musical instrument stores are created alike. Many specialize in specific types of instruments, such as guitars, band instruments or keyboards. If you are searching for a baby grand piano, it pays to call each music store first and inquire about their inventory. A store specializing in pianos and organs may be more likely to offer a baby grand piano than a general music store with electronic keyboards prominently featured.

If a local music store does not offer a suitable baby grand piano, then you could search online for other music stores or even the websites of piano manufacturers. Occasionally a baby grand piano may be offered for sale through an online auction, although shipping costs could be prohibitive. A manufacturer's website often lists authorized agents who carry their specific line of instruments. A baby grand piano would be considered a fairly major investment, so any delivery option from an out-of-state dealer should include insurance coverage.

Occasionally a local church, community theater or college with a music program will offer to sell a baby grand piano in order to make room for a larger performance piano. It may help to contact the chairperson of a college music department for details on any upcoming auctions of school equipment. The private sale of a baby grand piano may also be advertised in local newspapers, either under a specific classified header for musical instruments or as a general sale. Estate sales may also include family heirlooms such as a baby grand piano.

Since a baby grand piano often requires a significant investment in time, money and logistics, it helps to be sure it will be fully appreciated by the intended recipient. You don't want to own a very expensive dust collector three months after purchase. Make sure you are comfortable with having a performance-level instrument in your home before making such a large investment.