Chopin, Beethoven, Bach, and Now You: How to Play the Piano
Leave Chopsticks Behind With These Tips!
The piano makes some of the most beautiful music the world has ever heard, and if you're intrigued by this timeless classical instrument, piano lessons may be in your future. With a good teacher, a healthy dose of patience and regular practice, you can learn how to play piano regardless of your age, or the current extent of your musical experience.
If you want to learn how to play piano, enrolling in lessons is the first step you should take. Finding the right instructor is very important to your future success, though, and there are a few tips you should keep in mind when you're searching for a piano teacher to help unlock your inner musician.
Learn How to Play Piano: Finding an Instructor
Regardless of whether you want to learn to play guitar, piano, violin or any other instrument, there are several strategies you can use to locate a qualified instructor who will give you value for your money. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Look in the right places. The good old Yellow Pages are still a good resource for locating music instructors, as are local music conservatories and even colleges that offer music performance courses. If there are any music periodicals that are published specifically for your region, check the classified ads at the back – you can often find ads placed by qualified instructors looking for new students.
- Interview the prospective teacher. Don't commit to a specific teacher solely on the basis of a phone call or a brief meeting. Most reputable teachers offer an introductory lesson free of cost or obligation, which is designed to help both parties see if there is a rapport between teacher and student. Take this opportunity to ask questions about the instructor's experience, both with performing and teaching music.
- Get value for your money. Chances are you'll find significant variations in the rates charged by piano teachers. Highly qualified and experienced instructors tend to charge more for lessons, and new instructors tend to charge less, but options at both ends of the spectrum can provide excellent value for your money. The bottom line is that there's more to consider than just the dollar figure; look at the quality of instruction you'll receive for the price and choose an instructor who provides value.
Follow Up on Your Piano Lessons
Your piano proficiency will improve rapidly if you take the initiative to follow up on your formal lessons by practicing on your own. Ask your instructor to provide you with piano sheet music suitable for a player at your level, or find some free piano music online to download. Then, try to spend time every day playing. Draw on the lessons your instructor taught you, but try to integrate them into a more fluid and natural style as your confidence increases.
