How to Set Up a Keyboard at Home (Step-by-Step Beginner Guide)

Learning to play the keyboard is an exciting experience, especially for children who are discovering music for the first time. But before your child can start playing their favourite songs, there is one important step: learning how to set up a keyboard at home the right way.

A good keyboard setup does more than make the instrument ready to play. It creates a comfortable, organised, and distraction-free environment where children can focus on learning music, develop healthy playing habits, and enjoy practising regularly.

The good news? Setting up a keyboard at home is much easier than you might think. You don’t need a dedicated music room, expensive equipment, or technical knowledge. With a suitable keyboard, a sturdy stand, a comfortable seat, and a quiet corner, you can create an excellent learning space.

Whether you’ve just purchased your child’s first musical keyboard or are preparing for their first online keyboard lesson, this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why Is a Proper Keyboard Setup Important for Beginners?

When parents purchase a keyboard for their child, the first instinct is often to place it on a nearby table and let them start playing.

While this might work temporarily, the way a keyboard is positioned can influence how comfortably and effectively a child learns.

Imagine trying to write neatly while sitting on a chair that’s too high or using a desk that’s too low. It would quickly become uncomfortable. Playing the keyboard is no different.

A well-planned keyboard setup offers several benefits:

• Encourages correct playing posture: Children are still developing their coordination and physical habits. Sitting at the correct height keeps their shoulders relaxed, wrists comfortably aligned, and hands positioned naturally over the keys. Poor positioning encourages unnecessary tension, making it harder to develop good playing technique and posture.
• Makes practising more comfortable: If a child has to stretch their arms, sit awkwardly, or balance the keyboard on an unstable surface, practising quickly becomes tiring. A comfortable setup lets them focus on the music rather than constantly adjusting their position.
• Helps children stay focused: A keyboard placed in a noisy living room, next to a television, or in a crowded study area makes concentration difficult. A designated music corner helps children associate that space with learning and practising.
• Builds consistent practice habits: One of the biggest challenges parents face is encouraging children to practise regularly. When the keyboard is already set up and easily accessible, children are far more likely to sit down and play for a few minutes.
• Supports online keyboard lessons: For children attending online keyboard classes, the teacher should be able to see the child’s hands, keyboard, and sitting posture. Good positioning makes it easier to demonstrate techniques, spot mistakes, and give helpful feedback.

Step 1: Choose the Right Beginner Keyboard

Before setting up a keyboard, make sure you have an instrument suitable for the learner’s age, experience, and musical goals.

Not all keyboards are the same. Some are designed as simple recreational instruments, while others are better suited to structured music education. If you’re still deciding, our keyboard buying guide for parents explains what to look for.

How Many Keys Should a Beginner Keyboard Have? (61 vs 88 Keys)

Electronic keyboards are available in different sizes, commonly including 49, 61, 76, and 88 keys.

For many children beginning general keyboard lessons, a 61-key keyboard is a practical starting point. It offers enough range for a wide variety of beginner exercises and songs without occupying too much space.

However, if your child is specifically learning piano, an 88-key digital piano with weighted keys may be a better long-term choice.

Important Features to Look for in a Beginner Keyboard

When choosing a beginner keyboard, consider the following:

• Touch-sensitive keys: These allow the volume to change depending on how firmly the keys are pressed, helping children learn musical expression.
• Built-in speakers: Convenient for everyday practice without additional equipment.
• Headphone connection: Useful for practising without disturbing others.
• Metronome: Helps children develop a steady sense of rhythm.
• Sustain pedal compatibility: Useful as students progress to more advanced techniques.
• USB MIDI connectivity: Helpful for connecting compatible devices and music-learning software.
• Clear controls: Simple, accessible buttons make the instrument easier for beginners to operate.

Popular beginner keyboard ranges include the Yamaha PSR series and Casio CT-S series. See our list of the best keyboard models for beginners for more options.

Before purchasing, check with your child’s music teacher. The ideal instrument depends on whether your child is learning keyboard, piano, or a particular music curriculum.

Step 2: Find the Best Place for Your Keyboard at Home

You don’t need a large room to create an effective music-learning space.

Even a small corner of a bedroom, study, or living room can work beautifully if it is planned properly.

Choose a Quiet, Well-Lit Location

Look for a space where your child can practise without constant interruptions.

Ideally, the location should have:

• Minimal background noise.
• Good lighting.
• Enough space for the keyboard and seat.
• Access to a safe electrical outlet.
• Comfortable ventilation.
• A stable, level floor.

Avoid placing the keyboard directly next to a television or in a busy passageway where people frequently walk past.

Keep the Keyboard Away from Heat and Moisture

Electronic keyboards contain sensitive components that can be affected by unsuitable environmental conditions.

Avoid placing the instrument:

• In direct sunlight for long periods.
• Near open windows where rain may enter.
• Close to water sources or humid areas.
• Next to heaters or other heat-producing appliances.
• In locations where drinks can easily spill onto the keys.

A dry, well-ventilated indoor space is generally the safest choice.

Make the Music Corner Inviting for Kids

A music corner doesn’t have to look like a professional studio.

A colourful practice chart, a small bookshelf for music materials, or a noticeboard displaying your child’s musical achievements can make the space feel special.

The goal is to create an environment where children feel excited to return and practise.

Parent Tip: If possible, keep the keyboard permanently set up rather than packing it away after every session. Having the instrument ready makes spontaneous practice much more likely.

Step 3: Set Up and Adjust the Keyboard Stand

Once you’ve chosen the location, the next step is setting up the keyboard stand.

A dedicated stand is generally preferable to placing the keyboard on a dining table, bed, or other unsuitable surface.

Types of Keyboard Stands (X-Style, Double-Braced, Z-Style)

X-Style Keyboard Stand

A common choice for beginner keyboards. It is usually affordable, adjustable, and easy to fold away.

Choose one with a secure locking mechanism and suitable weight capacity.

Double-Braced X-Style Stand

Similar to a standard X-stand but with additional bracing for greater stability.

It can be a useful option for heavier instruments, provided the stand is correctly adjusted and compatible.

Z-Style Keyboard Stand

Often provides a stable platform with more open legroom.

It can be particularly useful for learners who need a comfortable, long-term setup.

How to Assemble a Keyboard Stand

1. Place the stand on a flat, even surface.
2. Open or assemble it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Adjust the height to suit the child’s seated position.
4. Secure all locks, screws, and adjustment mechanisms.
5. Place the keyboard centrally on the stand.
6. Check that the instrument is properly supported and cannot easily slide or tip.

Never assume that a stand is secure simply because the keyboard appears to rest comfortably on it.

Make sure the stand supports the instrument’s dimensions and weight, and use any recommended securing hardware.

What Is the Right Keyboard Stand Height for a Child?

There is no single ideal stand height for every child.

The correct height depends on the child’s body proportions, seat height, and keyboard design.

When seated, your child should be able to place their hands on the keys with relaxed shoulders and forearms approximately level with the keyboard, without bending their wrists excessively.

If the keyboard is too high, children may raise their shoulders or strain their wrists. If it is too low, they may hunch forward.

Step 4: Choose the Right Keyboard Bench or Chair

The seat is just as important as the keyboard stand.

A poorly chosen chair can affect posture, comfort, and hand positioning.

What Makes a Good Keyboard Seat?

An adjustable keyboard or piano bench is a useful option because its height can be changed as the child grows.

Look for a seat that is:

• Stable and unlikely to wobble.
• Comfortable but not excessively soft.
• Adjustable to an appropriate height.
• Wide enough to allow natural movement.
• Positioned so the child can sit upright without leaning forward.

A regular chair can also work if it provides the correct height and stability.

Avoid chairs with wheels, unstable cushions, or armrests that interfere with playing.

Correct Keyboard Posture for Beginners

Ask your child to sit with their back comfortably upright, shoulders relaxed, and elbows free to move.

Their hands should rest naturally over the keys without excessive wrist bending.

The seat should be positioned far enough away to allow comfortable arm movement, but not so far that the child needs to stretch forward.

For younger children whose feet cannot reach the floor, use a stable footrest.

Having proper foot support helps children maintain a balanced sitting position.

A simple posture check: Ask your child to play a few notes while keeping their shoulders relaxed. If they are lifting their shoulders, stretching forward, or bending their wrists awkwardly, adjust the seat or stand.

Good posture should feel natural rather than forced.

Step 5: Connect the Keyboard to Power Safely

Most electronic keyboards operate using a power adapter, batteries, or both.

For regular home practice, a compatible power adapter is often the most convenient option.

How to Connect Your Keyboard Safely

1. Make sure the keyboard is switched off.
2. Locate the power input, usually on the rear panel.
3. Connect the manufacturer-approved adapter to the keyboard.
4. Plug the adapter into a suitable electrical outlet.
5. Ensure the cable is not stretched, twisted, or positioned where someone could trip over it.
6. Switch on the keyboard using the power button.

Always use an adapter that meets the manufacturer’s voltage, polarity, and current specifications.

Using an incompatible adapter can damage the instrument and may create a safety hazard.

Electrical safety tips:

• If your child is young, an adult should handle the initial electrical setup.
• Keep cables away from walking areas, avoid overloading sockets, and never operate electrical equipment with wet hands.
• If you notice damaged wiring, unusual smells, or excessive heat from the adapter, stop using the instrument and have it checked.

Once everything is connected, press a few keys to confirm that the instrument produces sound.

Step 6: Adjust the Basic Keyboard Settings

Modern electronic keyboards often include numerous sounds, rhythms, effects, and functions.

While these features can be exciting, beginners don’t need to explore everything immediately.

Start with a few essential settings.

Select the Piano Sound

Most keyboards include several instrument voices, such as piano, electric piano, organ, guitar, and strings.

For early lessons, select the standard acoustic piano voice unless the teacher recommends another sound.

This helps children concentrate on pitch, note recognition, and basic playing technique.

Adjust the Volume

Set the volume to a comfortable level.

It should be loud enough for your child to hear clearly without becoming uncomfortable or disturbing others.

Avoid encouraging children to practise at unnecessarily high volumes.

Turn On Touch Sensitivity

If your keyboard has touch-sensitive keys, make sure this feature is enabled.

Touch sensitivity allows children to explore playing softly and loudly, which is an important part of musical expression.

Not all beginner keyboards include this feature, so check your instrument’s manual.

Use the Built-In Metronome

A metronome produces a regular beat that helps musicians practise timing.

For example, a setting of 60 beats per minute produces one beat every second.

Beginners can use the metronome for simple clapping exercises, counting beats, and practising short musical patterns.

Start at a comfortable speed and increase it only when your child can play accurately.

Avoid Overusing Auto-Accompaniment

Many keyboards include built-in rhythms, accompaniment styles, and automatic chord features.

These can make music enjoyable, but they should not replace learning fundamental skills.

Children should gradually develop the ability to recognise notes, understand rhythm and timing, coordinate both hands, and play independently.

Fun features are best used as additions to structured learning, not substitutes for it.

Step 7: Connect Headphones for Quiet Practice

Headphones can be extremely useful when a child wants to practise early in the morning, in the evening, or while other family members are working.

Most electronic keyboards include a headphone output.

How to Connect Headphones to a Keyboard

1. Locate the headphone socket on the keyboard.
2. Check whether the connection requires a 3.5 mm or 6.35 mm plug.
3. Use a compatible adapter if necessary.
4. Turn the volume down before connecting.
5. Plug in the headphones.
6. Gradually increase the volume to a comfortable level.

On many keyboards, connecting headphones automatically mutes the built-in speakers.

Are Headphones Safe for Children?

Yes, provided they are comfortable, properly fitted, and used at safe listening levels.

Choose headphones that fit the child’s head without excessive pressure.

Keep the volume low enough for comfortable listening and encourage regular breaks.

For younger children, parental supervision is helpful.

Headphones can also help beginners hear details in their playing, although children should have opportunities to practise through speakers as well.

Step 8: Set Up Your Keyboard for Online Keyboard Classes

If your child is attending online keyboard lessons, the setup needs a little additional planning.

The teacher must be able to hear the instrument clearly and observe how your child is playing.

Fortunately, this usually requires only a few simple adjustments. For more ideas, read our setup tips for online lessons at home.

Position the Laptop or Tablet Correctly

Place the laptop or tablet beside the keyboard, ideally at an angle where the teacher can see:

• Your child’s face and upper body.
• Both hands while playing.
• A useful portion of the keyboard.
• Their sitting posture.

Avoid placing the device directly behind the keyboard if it blocks the child’s view or makes hand movements difficult to observe.

A stable tablet holder or laptop stand can help maintain the correct angle.

Check Your Internet and Audio Settings

A stable internet connection is important for uninterrupted lessons.

Before the class begins, check that the device is connected to Wi-Fi, the battery is charged, and the video platform is working.

If possible, keep the device connected to power during longer lessons.

Online music lessons require more careful audio setup than ordinary video calls.

Some meeting applications automatically reduce background sounds, which can unintentionally affect musical instruments.

If your platform provides music-friendly audio settings, enable them according to the teacher’s instructions.

Test the keyboard sound and microphone before the lesson.

Do You Need to Connect the Keyboard to a Computer?

Not necessarily.

For many beginner online keyboard classes, the device’s microphone is sufficient when positioned properly.

More advanced setups may use an audio interface or a compatible direct audio connection.

Remember: a USB MIDI connection usually transmits note and performance data, not the keyboard’s actual audio.

For beginners, keeping the setup simple is often the best approach.

How Music Pandit Makes Online Keyboard Learning Easier

At Music Pandit, online keyboard classes for kids are designed specifically for children.

Lessons are conducted live in small groups, allowing teachers to observe students, explain concepts, and provide individual attention within a collaborative learning environment.

Children learn through structured lessons that gradually introduce musical concepts, technique, rhythm, and songs.

Parents can also support the learning process by ensuring the keyboard and device are correctly positioned before each class.

A good home setup, combined with consistent teaching and regular practice, can make online keyboard learning both enjoyable and effective.

Keyboard ready? Book a free trial keyboard class and let a Music Pandit teacher check your child’s setup live.

Step 9: Organise Essential Keyboard Accessories

Once the main instrument is ready, a few simple accessories can make the learning experience more convenient.

You don’t need to purchase everything immediately.

Start with the essentials and add equipment as your child’s skills develop.

Keep Learning Materials Within Reach

Create a small space near the keyboard for lesson books, notebooks, and practice charts.

This prevents children from wasting time looking for materials every time they sit down to practise.

If your child attends online keyboard classes, keep their device stand, charging cable, and lesson materials organised in the same area.

Step 10: Test Your Keyboard Before the First Lesson

Before your child begins learning, spend a few minutes checking that everything works properly.

This simple test can prevent interruptions during the first online lesson.

Beginner Keyboard Setup Checklist

• The keyboard is securely positioned on its stand.
• The bench or chair is at a comfortable height.
• The child’s feet are supported.
• The power adapter and cables are safely connected.
• All keys produce sound.
• The volume is comfortable.
• The correct instrument sound is selected.
• The music book or lesson material is ready.
• The camera and microphone work for online lessons.
• The practice area is free from unnecessary distractions.

Once everything is ready, encourage your child to explore the instrument.

Let them play a few notes, listen to different sounds, and become familiar with the keys.

The first experience should feel exciting and welcoming, not like a test.

6 Common Keyboard Setup Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the right equipment, a few common mistakes can make learning unnecessarily difficult.

1. Placing the Keyboard Too High or Too Low

Incorrect height can encourage awkward hand positioning and poor posture.

Always adjust the keyboard and seat according to the child’s body proportions.

2. Using an Unstable Surface

A keyboard that wobbles or slides can distract children and create a safety risk.

Use a properly assembled stand designed to support the instrument.

3. Sitting Too Far Away

When children sit too far from the keyboard, they may stretch their arms or lean forward.

Encourage a comfortable distance that allows relaxed arm movement.

4. Keeping the Keyboard in a Distracting Area

Constant background noise, television, and frequent interruptions can make practice difficult.

Choose a quieter location whenever possible.

5. Buying Too Many Accessories Immediately

Parents sometimes assume they need professional headphones, speakers, recording equipment, and multiple pedals before lessons begin.

Most beginners need only a suitable keyboard, stand, seat, and basic learning materials.

Additional accessories can be introduced when genuinely required.

6. Focusing Only on Playing Songs

Children naturally enjoy learning familiar songs, and songs are an excellent way to keep lessons engaging.

However, learning music involves much more than memorising which keys to press.

A well-rounded keyboard education should also introduce rhythm, note reading, hand coordination, listening skills, and musical understanding.

This is why structured keyboard lessons are important.

How to Create a Daily Keyboard Practice Routine

Once your keyboard is set up, the next challenge is helping your child use it regularly.

Children often begin with plenty of enthusiasm, but that excitement may fade if practice feels repetitive or overwhelming.

The solution is to keep practice sessions short, purposeful, and encouraging.

How Long Should Beginners Practise?

The ideal duration depends on the child’s age, attention span, experience, and teacher’s recommendations.

For many young beginners, 10–15 minutes of focused practice can be a useful starting point.

As children become more comfortable, sessions can gradually increase.

A child who practises attentively for 15 minutes may benefit more than one who sits at the keyboard for 45 minutes without focus.

A Simple 15-Minute Keyboard Practice Routine

This structure provides a balance between skill development and enjoyment.

As children progress, the teacher can recommend more challenging exercises and a sustainable practice schedule.

Encourage Progress, Not Perfection

Beginners will occasionally press the wrong keys, forget notes, or struggle with hand coordination.

These mistakes are a normal part of learning.

Instead of focusing only on whether the song sounds perfect, acknowledge the effort involved.

You might say, “I noticed you played that rhythm more steadily today,” or “You remembered where to place your fingers without help.”

Specific encouragement helps children recognise their progress and build confidence.

How Parents Can Support Kids Learning Keyboard at Home

Parents play an important role in creating a positive learning environment, even if they have no musical experience themselves.

You don’t need to know how to read music or play the keyboard to support your child’s music learning.

Establish a Consistent Practice Time

Choose a time when your child is reasonably rested and not rushing between activities.

For some children, this might be after school and a short break. Others may prefer practising in the morning or before dinner.

Consistency matters more than the particular time of day.

Show Interest in What They’re Learning

Ask your child to demonstrate a new rhythm, explain the difference between high and low notes, or play a short section of their latest song.

When children feel that their efforts are appreciated, they may become more motivated to continue.

Avoid Turning Practice into a Chore

It can be tempting to insist that children practise for a fixed duration every day.

However, forcing a tired or frustrated child to continue may create negative associations with music.

Encourage regular practice while remaining flexible when necessary.

Celebrate Small Achievements

Learning to identify middle C, play a melody with one hand, maintain a steady beat, or coordinate both hands are all meaningful milestones.

Recognising these achievements can make the learning journey more rewarding.

Stay Connected With the Teacher

A good music teacher can help parents understand what their child is learning and how to support practice at home.

At Music Pandit, structured lessons, assessments, and progress tracking help parents understand their child’s development beyond simply counting how many songs they have learned.

How to Maintain and Care for Your Keyboard

A keyboard is an investment in your child’s musical education, and simple maintenance can help keep it in good condition.

Fortunately, electronic keyboards generally require relatively little routine maintenance.

• Clean the keyboard regularly: Dust collects on the keys and around the controls. Wipe the instrument gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. For deeper cleaning, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep moisture out of the keyboard. Never spray cleaning liquids directly onto the instrument. Our guide on how to clean a keyboard safely covers this step by step.
• Cover it when not in use: A suitable dust cover protects the keyboard between sessions. Make sure the instrument is clean and dry before covering it.
• Keep food and drinks away: Crumbs and spilled liquids can damage electronic components. Set a simple house rule: food and drinks stay away from the keyboard.
• Handle cables carefully: Disconnect power adapters by the plug or connector, never by pulling the cable, and keep cords organised.
• Avoid unnecessary moving: Frequent moving increases the risk of knocks and drops. Keep the keyboard in its designated spot, and use a protective case when you do need to transport it.

When Should Your Child Start Keyboard Lessons?

There is no single age at which every child should begin keyboard lessons.

Some children show interest in music very early, while others become enthusiastic about learning an instrument later.

For children around six years and above, structured beginner keyboard lessons can be an excellent introduction to music, provided the teaching approach is age-appropriate.

A child doesn’t need to know musical notation or have previous experience before starting.

What matters more is their interest, readiness to follow simple instructions, and willingness to explore the instrument. These signs your child is ready for lessons can help you decide.

What Do Children Learn in Their First Keyboard Lessons?

A well-structured beginner programme typically introduces skills gradually, including:

• Recognising the black and white key patterns.
• Finding and identifying notes on the keyboard.
• Understanding basic rhythm and counting.
• Developing finger independence and coordination.
• Playing simple melodies.
• Reading beginner-level music notation.
• Learning to listen carefully and recognise musical patterns.
• Gradually developing two-hand coordination.

Songs can be incorporated throughout the learning process to make these concepts more engaging.

However, the purpose of a lesson should be to build musical understanding, not simply to teach children to copy a sequence of notes.

Why Online Keyboard Classes Are a Great Choice for Kids

Once your keyboard is properly set up at home, online music classes can offer a convenient way to begin learning.

Children can attend live lessons without travelling to a music school, making it easier for families to include music education in their weekly routines.

But convenience alone isn’t enough.

The quality of teaching, lesson structure, and opportunities for interaction are equally important.

At Music Pandit, our online music classes for children focus on building strong musical foundations in a fun, supportive environment.

Our approach includes age-appropriate lessons, interactive activities, popular songs used to teach musical concepts, and small-group learning.

Children have opportunities to learn alongside peers while receiving guidance from trained teachers.

Regular assessments and certifications and opportunities to perform also help children work towards meaningful milestones.

Most importantly, the objective is not simply to help children play more songs. It is to help them become more confident, independent, and expressive musicians over time.

FAQs About Setting Up a Keyboard at Home

Can I place a keyboard on a regular table?

Yes, provided the table is stable, supports the keyboard securely, and allows a comfortable playing height. However, a dedicated keyboard stand is usually more convenient because it can be adjusted to suit the learner.

Is a 61-key keyboard enough for beginners?

For many children starting general keyboard lessons, a 61-key keyboard is sufficient. Students pursuing piano-focused training may eventually need, or be advised to begin with, an 88-key weighted instrument.

Do beginners need a sustain pedal?

Not necessarily. Beginners can start learning basic notes, rhythms, and melodies without one. A sustain pedal can be introduced when the music and teaching curriculum require it.

Can children learn keyboard online without a professional audio setup?

Yes. Many beginners can attend online keyboard lessons using a keyboard with built-in speakers and a laptop or tablet with a working camera and microphone. Correct device positioning and audio settings are important.

How much space do I need for a keyboard at home?

A compact keyboard can fit into a relatively small area. The exact space required depends on the keyboard, stand, seat, and room layout. Allow enough room for comfortable sitting, arm movement, and safe access around the instrument.

Should I buy a keyboard or digital piano for my child?

The choice depends on the type of music education your child will pursue. Portable keyboards are often convenient for general beginner keyboard learning, while digital pianos with weighted keys are better suited to developing traditional piano technique. Read more on the difference between learning on a keyboard or piano.

How often should my child practise the keyboard?

Short, consistent practice sessions several days a week are generally more helpful than occasional long sessions. Your child’s teacher can recommend an appropriate schedule based on their progress and learning goals.

Is it necessary to learn music notation before playing the keyboard?

No. Beginners can learn note recognition, rhythm, basic notation, and simple playing techniques together. A structured curriculum introduces these concepts gradually.

Can siblings share the same keyboard?

Yes. Siblings can share an instrument as long as the setup can be adjusted for each child’s height and they have suitable opportunities to practise independently.

How do I know whether my child’s keyboard setup is correct?

Observe whether your child can sit comfortably, keep their shoulders relaxed, reach the keys naturally, and play without unnecessary strain. Their keyboard teacher can also review the setup and recommend adjustments.

Final Thoughts: Create a Home Where Music Can Grow

Setting up a keyboard at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

With a suitable instrument, a stable stand, comfortable seating, and a quiet practice area, you can create a welcoming environment where your child can begin exploring music.

The most important thing is not how impressive the setup looks, but how well it supports your child’s learning.

A thoughtfully arranged music corner can encourage better posture, improve concentration, and make regular practice easier.

And when that setup is combined with structured lessons, patient teaching, and encouragement from parents, children have a strong foundation for developing musical skills.

At Music Pandit, we believe that learning music should be joyful, meaningful, and accessible to every child. Our online keyboard classes help children build their skills step by step, while developing confidence, creativity, discipline, and a lasting appreciation for music.

Ready to help your child begin their musical journey? Explore Music Pandit’s online keyboard classes and discover how the right guidance can turn a simple home keyboard into the beginning of something wonderful.