Casio CT-S1-76: The Ultimate 76 Note Keyboard?

In the bustling streets of London, music fills the air, drawing people to a lively and passionate musician, Serena Kaos. With a decade of full-time experience in the music world and two years devoted entirely to street performances, Serena has become a beloved fixture on the city's streets. In this interview, she shares her journey, her love for her craft, and her passion for the instrument that changed everything for her: the Casiotone CT-S1 keyboard.

Serena, it’s great to have you here! Let’s start with your journey. What has it been like to be a street musician in London?

Thank you! It’s been an incredible adventure. For the past two years, I've been performing full-time on the streets of London, and I can honestly say it's a dream come true. You get this unique blend of having a sort of “9 to 5” schedule – you’re working during the day, under the sun, seeing the sky, surrounded by a community. It's an amazing way to live.

That sounds wonderful! As a pianist, what are the most important things you look for in a keyboard?

For me, the three most important aspects of a keyboard are its portability – the weight and dimensions are crucial when you're moving around as much as I do – the quality of the piano sound, which needs to be as natural as possible, and finally, the feel and response of the keys. Those are non-negotiables for me!

You mentioned the Casiotone CT-S1 earlier. What makes it the ideal keyboard for a busker like yourself?

The Casiotone CT-S1 has honestly been a game-changer for me. It’s the first keyboard I've ever found that meets all the needs of a busker while delivering a great piano sound. The portability is unmatched – it's lightweight and easy to carry around, which is essential when you’re performing on the go. And I absolutely love the feel of the keys – they have the right amount of sensitivity and response that I need.

That’s fantastic to hear! You’ve tried different versions of the Casiotone. What’s your take on the 76-key version compared to the 61-key?

The main difference for me is the sense of freedom the 76-key version gives. It’s actually the best-case scenario for a pianist who needs that sensitivity on the keyboard. With 76 keys, I can explore a wider range, and I feel less restricted in my playing. It just feels more natural, more like a real piano.

You started busking with a guitar. Why did you decide to switch back to the piano?

I did start out with a guitar, mostly because it’s easier to carry around. But I’m a pianist at heart, and I realized that I needed to stay true to who I am. I did consider sticking with the guitar for convenience, but with pianos like the Casiotone, I don’t have to compromise. The keyboard’s design, the keybed, the sound – I prefer everything about it!

It sounds like you’ve found the perfect instrument for your craft!

I really have! The Casiotone CT-S1 lets me be who I am – a pianist who loves to play and share music with the world. It’s become an extension of myself, allowing me to express myself fully while being out there on the streets of London. It’s the best of both worlds – portability and quality.