Top 4 Suggestions for New Piano Students

Congratulations on being curious. Delving into the unknown may seem frightening, but you are on the cusp on a delightful adventure.

Before you commit to learning to love the piano, here are my top five suggestions from more than 30 years of teaching students how to play.

1. Buy Your Own Instrument

Whether you purchase a new or used piano, make the investment to fill your home with music. In the Jacksonville area, I recommend Keyboard Connection for purchasing a new or used piano. If you are going to purchase a keyboard, be sure to get one with 88 full-size keys from a reputable brand such as Yamaha or Kawai. Here’s a great example of a Yamaha keyboard.

2. Schedule Your Practice Time

With 20 minutes of scheduled practice time each day, you will love learning piano. Don’t try to learn in marathon spurts. Fast-food learning is like fast-food, it’s not that good for you. Instead, set yourself up for success and practice daily for about 20 – 30 minutes.

3. Play for Others

Music is a gift to be shared. Every time you play for others, your joy will grow. Most will not be critical of the wrong notes. Instead, they will appreciate your attempt to share your growing love for music.

4. Set Realistic Expectations

OK, you don’t sound like Elton John, so what? Realistic expectations for a first year student would be playing a familiar tune with reasonable success. Can your child feel their way through Happy Birthday while you sing along? That’s a win. Don’t demand perfection. Enjoy your musical journey.