Performance Equipment
Unless your chosen venue has a regularly tuned and maintained high-quality acoustic grand piano, Andre prefers to use the following professional high quality performance equipment. His comments on his choice of equipment are included below.
KURZWEIL PC3LE8 88-NOTE PERFORMANCE CONTROLLER & STAGE PIANO
“As a pianist, the feel of your instrument is the most important feature. You react to an instrument, playing better when it gives something back to you. And while few digital keyboards can match the authentic response of a quality acoustic grand piano, the 88-key Kurzweil PC3LE8 Performance Controller provides a spectacular response for live performance situations. Much has been written about the astounding PC3 series, but for the purposes of live performance, the PC3LE8 has fully-weighted hammer-action with velocity and after-touch sensitive keys that simulate the weight and throw characteristics of a real piano hammer. This, combined with the famous Kurzweil grand and electric piano sounds and effects, provide everything that gives me as the performer a great feeling about making music.”
YAMAHA STAGEPAS 300 PORTABLE PA SYSTEM
“Superb as the PC3LE8 is, it is incomplete without a good quality sound system, and for that I choose to use Yamaha’s superb Stagepas 300 portable PA system. The Stagepas 300 produces breathtaking sound quality with true stereo sound, and with the ability to elevate the speakers above furniture or other obstacles I can ensure that the music is carried to best acoustic effect.
“In summary, I find that in the absence of a quality piano instrument, I prefer to use my own equipment to provide what I hope will be a satisfying performance that will enhance your special occasion, both to your enjoyment and that of your invited guests.”
— Andre Mendes da Costa