In order to speed up the process of learning to play piano, a few steps should be taken.  A few of these ideas may be obvious, but we all need to be reminded of the basics now and then.  As for the rest, you may learn a thing or two.  Try to memorize these tips to keep you in good stead during the learning process. 

(… and above all, remember that learning to play piano today is quite possible on your own, as there are a number of good training packages available in bookstores or online …)

1.  If you are really not interested in the piano, do yourself and everyone else a favor.  Don’t bother trying.  Maybe you reason that it would be advantageous to play the piano, but your heart is not in it.  If this is the case, try listening to multiple types of piano music, to see if you begin to enjoy it.  It’s not a good idea to attempt learning the piano until you’re truly comfortable with the idea. 

2.  Play what you like.  In earlier times, and sometimes even now, the learning process required large amounts of time learning traditional piano music before being allowed to choose.  It will be far more inspiring for you if you derive pleasure from the learning experience, so try and find simple versions of your favorite songs. This way, you can still have fun while learning. 

3.  Get right to it.  Don’t dillydally or waste time just to simply learn the scales. Start playing music as soon as you can.  The more you play, the more you will learn.  The more you learn, the more you will play.  This can only be good for bettering your skills. 

4.  Play on the best piano you have available.  Although don’t be too put off if all you can find is an electric keyboard.  It’s definitely an advantage if you get to use a Clavinova, as it has all of the 88 keys.  Others may argue that an upright piano is even better.  Undoubtedly, if you have access to a good grand piano, play it. 

5.  Do your best not to disturb others in the household.  The sound will invariably echo through the walls.  In most houses, there is no getting around that.  Although, try to make sure that you ask permission before you begin to practice, as those who need some quiet time, or need to study will find the noise very distracting.  It could be that they’ve had a hard day’s work, and need some time to relax. If you choose to disregard their opinion, the tension between house-mates may hamper your practice. 

6.  Be self disciplined, but not overly so.  Do not be harsh with yourself.  If you will not allow yourself to stop a practice no matter what exciting thing is happening in the household, you will come to resent the piano.  Allow yourself a little leeway.  Don’t relax too much though – if you start to become too laxed, you may give up all together.  Only constant practice can aid you to develop your senses and coordination, in order to eventually achieve mastery. 

7.  Keep a journal of new things you learn.  If anything is new to you, or confusing, take 5 minutes to check the internet or reference manual .  Use a blank booklet, or open a document on the PC, typing each new achievement or lessons learned.  You can also write in the notebook what has worked for you and what has seemed to make things harder.  Record accomplishments while fresh on the mind, as you may soon forget. 

This is a new learning experience for you, so don’t worry – there’s no rush! Take as much time as you need.  Each time you find something that makes your life easier; remember it so that you can use it again.  When you do that, you can build on each lesson and advance to higher and higher levels.

p.s. If you are considering piano lessons for a child, check out the article Tips for Teaching Piano to Children.

Tagged with: • •

Filed under: Classical Performers

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!