The piano may seem very hard to learn but if you stick with certain principles, you can learn faster and become better than you ever thought possible. This does not mean that learning the piano is a walk in the park however it is not as mystical as it might seem. Common mistakes and misconceptions are often what makes the piano seem hard to learn. Dealing with the misconceptions and avoiding these mistakes would make it much simpler. We would discuss top piano tips you need to know to avoid these mistakes but first let’s quickly deal with the two most common misconceptions about learning the piano.
1. I do not have a Background in Music
If you do not have a background in music, it is not a final verdict on your ability to learn the piano. Although it may take longer than someone with a music background, you will gradually improve your knowledge base then learn the instrument with ease. Stay positive!
2. I am too old
You are not too old. Many people think that because they are adults, it is probably impossible to learn the piano. Learning young does have a significant advantage but that the truth is that no one is too old to begin. If you want to learn the piano as an adult and you are committed, why not? Moreover, learning as an adult reduces stress and anxiety, improves your memory, and strengthens your brain function.
Now you know that there is no limitation for you if you really want to learn the piano. Let’s discuss how you can make this happen without your efforts getting frustrated. We have compiled the top piano tips that make learning the instrument simpler and faster. Let’s dive in!
3. Get your own piano
It is best you buy your own piano or alternatively a keyboard which is less expensive than pianos. However be wary of cheap keyboards, an 88-key keyboard with an authentic piano tone is more like it. Without a proper 88-key piano, you are limited to so little and it will be even harder to learn the instrument – you do not want this. If you still cannot afford the standard keyboard, instead of going cheap, you could request access to the piano of a friend, family, or your church.
4. Know the basics
Learning to play the piano is not hard once you master the basics. Many beginners want to rush into more complex areas while they are yet to master the basics. A good foundation will ensure that you do not waste time as you progress. Here the basic aspects you would need to master.
Posture and fingering: The right posture decreases strain and helps you avoid injury. When you practice, start from your right and hand, then to your left after which you can now combine both. This would make it a lot easier. Also know that you practice scales often, it will help you perfect your fingering.
Major Keys: familiarise yourself with the major keys which are, bass, flat keys, middle keys, sharp keys, and high tones. Know the middle C as it is the base of the piano. Again, learning scales will help you understand keys such that you’d be able to know the keys of any song.
Reading Music: Don’t worry, it’s not as difficult as it looks in those manuscripts. Start from learning the general terms and music symbols. Once you can read notes and rhythms, learning the piano is simpler.
5. Don’t rush, slow down
Calm down. I know you want to start playing great music but there’s no way to rush yourself to mastering the piano in a few hours. This is part where you put the hard work, learning one-handed songs, basic melodies, and simple songs. While learning, don’t try to play fast because you will make a lot of mistakes and make your learning slower. Instead, focus on playing correctly even if it means you will play at a much slower pace. As you play consistently, you would begin to get faster and still play correctly.
6. Practice with songs
Songs make learning the piano fun and easier. Try to play songs that you love as your connection with them will boost your learning experience and make it enjoyable. Regular classes can become fun piano classes once songs are introduced.
7. Practice
You must be willing to practice regularly. It is best to have fixed practice times on your daily schedule. It is recommended to fix at least 30 minutes every day as practice time. You can spend more time if you wish, the most important thing is that you are consistent. If you are learning with a tutor, you can practice with co-learners regularly too as you get more ideas, improve your social skill, communication, and teamwork. Another way to practice is to play for your family and friends once in a while. This helps to boost your confidence and it is also a great source of inspiration to become better.
8. Find a tutor
A tutor helps your piano learning experience easier than you thought possible. LVL Music Academy is home to a lot of season tutors. With the benefit of experience, a tutor helps you to establish good habits, make corrections, and provide teaching materials. They also hold you accountable where needed and spur you to do more.
Conclusion
As you begin to learn the piano, though you may have a tutor, tons of materials, and guidance; the onus still lies on you to take the bold steps of action. As we have discussed, it is not hard to learn the piano but it would entail work and commitment. Your commitment and consistency are what guarantees your success in learning the skill and eventually becoming an expert. As you grow, it is imperative that you continually learn new things and ideas as it gives you exposure and ignites your creativity. Feel free to express yourself through the instrument as you sojourn in the vast world of music!
