It’s never too late to start learning and playing an instrument. While a lot of people learn from a young age, there’s also a growing number who enjoy learning to play an instrument as an adult.
Of course, learning as an adult can be a completely different experience and one that can be highly rewarding. Rather than it being something that often feels forced as a child.
As an adult, you may have a lot more focus and musical appreciation than a lot of children just don’t have it yet. With that being said, if you’re looking to get started on learning the piano without the stress, then here are some helpful tips on getting started.
Set your why
What’s your reason for learning to play the piano? It might be as part of a New Year’s resolution or as something you want to do as a hobby and perhaps one day, as a career. After all, it’s never too late to get started on just about anything in life.
Adults will often learn faster when they have a goal. Perhaps you’re keen on learning classical masterpieces or just to learn a few pop hits for fun. Knowing this will help you find the right teacher or app.
Choose your gear
Once you know your why, it’s time to stock up on the gear you’ll need to learn how to play. You don’t need a grand piano to start with. There are lots of variations to choose from, but there are two specific types to choose from. These are:
Digital pianos
Look for 88 weighted keys on digital pianos. This mimics the feel of a real piano, which is critical when it comes to building the finger strength needed to play the piano successfully.
Acoustic pianos
Acoustic pianos are great if you have the space and budget, as well as time for tuning. These are often more expensive, though, and don’t come with the ability to plug in your headphones. Digital ones are practical for late-night practice.
Pick your learning path
When it comes to picking your learning path, there are several routes that you can take. Most will opt for the tradition of having a private teacher. This is best for technique and for accountability as you progress through your lessons. You should ideally look for someone who specializes in adult students and who will treat you as a collaborator rather than a child.
There are lots of teachers out there, so choosing the right one can prove a challenge. However, be sure to look online, in your local area, and rely on recommendations and professional institutions to find legitimate and experienced piano teachers. Some teachers may specialize in piano lessons for adults.
There are some great tools to use that help with self-pacing as you learn to cater to your own efforts and needs.
The 15-minute rule
When you’re learning a musical instrument, consistency is key. As an adult, you might have a lot more responsibilities that limit your capacity to practice, but it’s important to practice nonetheless.
Consistency will beat intensity every time, and you’ll progress much faster practicing for fifteen to twenty minutes every day than you will do, during one three-hour marathon on the weekend.
Your brain also needs to sleep to ‘wire in’ what you’ve learn into your muscle memory.
Be kind to yourself
When you’re learning a new instrument, you should be kind to yourself. Your ears are likely more developed than your hands, and so you’ll know how a song should sound. That can be frustrating when your fingers won’t do what you want them to do. Embrace the wrong notes when they happen, as they’re just part of the process.
Mistakes are learning opportunities and the best way to make sure you’re learning and progressing further.
How to find the right piano lessons
Finding the right piano lessons means defining your goals, setting a budget, and of course, finding the best teacher.
?If you’re ready to find the right piano lessons, then here are a few tips that will help you garner success.
Define your goals
First and foremost, you’ll want to define your goals. For example, are you looking to learn classical, pop or jazz? Maybe you simply want to play for pleasure. Knowing the goals helps to choose a teacher with the right background or specialities you’re looking to master.
Locate potential teachers
Teachers can be found in many different places online and offline. Therefore, you’ll want to do your research and locate potential teachers.
Online platforms like ePiano Teachers’ Association (EPTA) and Superprof are helpful to find the right teacher, but more importantly, legitimate teachers available in your area.
Evaluate teacher qualifications
Look for a solid music education background when it comes to evaluating teacher qualifications. It ensures you have the experience teaching at your age and skill levels.
Conduct interviews/do trial lessons
It’s a good idea to ask for a trial to see if their teaching style, communication, and personality will align with your own needs. Many teachers will offer for free or at a reduced rate.
Discuss policies
When it comes to policies, inquire about their fees, any cancellation policies and, where applicable, the frequency of performance and exam opportunities that might be available.
Important considerations to think about
Some important considerations to think about include:
- Don’t settle – Don’t be afraid to switch teachers if the first one isn’t working out for you.
- Online versus in-person – While in-person lessons may be preferred for beginners, online lessons can also be effective.
- Consider methodology – Consider if using traditional methods is worthwhile or if using a more tailored approach, when it comes to your learning style, is more helpful.
Piano lessons are something to explore, and it’s a hobby or time that can be well spent. If you’re looking to take piano lessons, then consider taking them up this year or in the near future. Getting started is the hardest part!
