Yamaha M5J

The Yamaha M5J is a compact 110cm upright piano — one of Yamaha's most space-conscious designs, ideal for smaller rooms, flats, and homes where a full-sized upright would be too large. This mahogany satin example is priced at £2,750 and offers Yamaha's characteristic reliability and tonal clarity in a practical, easy-to-place format that suits both beginners and more experienced players who need a smaller instrument.

The M5J's compact footprint makes it one of the most practical acoustic uprights available, without significantly compromising on tone or touch. This instrument has been assessed and prepared by our team at The Piano Gallery and is available to try in our Oxfordshire showroom.

Available to purchase online or to try in person. Contact us for more information or to arrange a viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Yamaha M5J good for a beginner?

Yes — the M5J is a perfectly capable beginner piano. It has Yamaha's reliable, consistent action and clear tone, and being a genuine acoustic instrument it develops proper touch sensitivity and technique. Many learners start on a compact Yamaha like this and progress confidently through their early grades. It's also a good choice for anyone returning to the piano who wants something compact and dependable.

How does the M5J compare to a taller Yamaha like the U1?

The Yamaha U1, at 121cm, has longer strings and a larger soundboard than the 110cm M5J, which gives it a fuller, more resonant sound with greater dynamic range. The M5J is genuinely musical, but the difference becomes more noticeable as a player develops and seeks more expression. If space allows, a U1 or U3 will reward a serious student more over the long term. We're always happy to let you compare both in our showroom.

Is a used Yamaha M5J a good buy compared to a new compact piano?

Yamaha's build quality and reputation mean that a used M5J, properly serviced, will typically outperform many new entry-level compact pianos from lesser-known brands. You also benefit from Yamaha's proven resale value and parts availability. As authorised Yamaha dealers, we can offer new Yamaha uprights too — and we're well placed to advise honestly on whether new or used makes more sense for your circumstances.

At what point should I upgrade from a compact Yamaha to a full-sized upright?

There's no fixed rule, but many teachers suggest that a student approaching Grade 4–5 and above will benefit from the greater touch weight, longer key travel, and bigger tone of a full-sized upright. If you find yourself wanting more volume and expressive range, that's usually the signal. We stock a wide range of used Yamaha U1, U3 and other full-sized uprights, and upgrading — with part-exchange — is straightforward.

How long will a Yamaha M5J last?

A well-maintained Yamaha upright should last 40–60 years. Keep it away from radiators and exterior walls, have it tuned twice a year, and regulate the action periodically — those simple steps are all it needs for a very long life.