The piano is one of the most popular instruments because of its simplicity in learning and the flexibility it affords as compared to many other musical instruments.
The Piano can be used as an accompaniment for other instruments, or you can enjoy the benefits of the piano all by itself. The tone is amazing, and the variety of music that you can use it to play is seemingly endless.
You will find that many musicians use this instrument as their foundation, even if they are adept at other instruments. This is because the piano adapts so well with an array of other instruments.
What You Need To Know First
The ticklish part of playing piano is coordinating your hands when learning to play in two parts. The piano is played simultaneously with both the right and left hands working individually and independently.
A good course of action is to learn some music theory before you actually begin your lessons. There are occasions that you are able to play songs with the melody in your right hand and block chords in the left. Of course this isn't the best way to play, but it will get you by.
Adult Students
For adults keeping your lessons stimulating and interesting is a bit of a challenge. Most likely you will not be keen on learning or performing nursery rhymes like a child would.
Take heart, these tunes are chosen for their simplicity and structure. It is comforting that you can recognize the melody and are able to easily follow along.
After a short while, if you are studious with your learning, you will eventually you will be able to play some impressive sounding songs. Then you will be encouraged to move forward with the next steps. This brief introductory period will soon pass and you will be rewarded with more variety of tunes to select from.
How Much Time Should I Allow Daily?
My best advice is to practice every day for a minimum of thirty minutes or more. Your fingers will "rust" if you do not let them roam the keys often.
Certainly you should be motivated by the fact the more you practice, the better you will play. Remembering to take shorts breaks every now and then as you practice will help to keep you alert. These small time outs will allow your fingers to recover and you will be better focused.
Do I Need To Learn How To Read Music?
It is always best to learn to read the music you will be playing. However many gifted musicians learn to play the piano without reading music.
Reading music is a good skill, it will be easier for you to play songs that way, but everyone learns differently!
Not only do you have to play the right notes, but it is just as important to play the notes with the correct rhythm! When you incorporate learning to read music along with learning to play the piano you have the best combination going for you.
Play pieces that you enjoy playing
Learning music theory is fun and is the best way to become a great musician, whether you want to play classical piano, jazz, blues piano or rock.
As you move along with your piano lessons, begin to practice sight reading; it's an important skill. It will help you master a piece faster and give you more time to work. Reading music is a good skill, it will be easier for you to play songs that way, but everyone learns differently!