Learning Piano

Learning piano is easy - it's just a matter of time. Start with your thumbs on middle C (the white key immediately left of the two black keys in the middle of the piano). Most melodies can be played in this position. Start with melodies; later we will add harmonies.

Mastering finger coordination is the first step. As in typing, you need to be able to play without looking. For five year-olds this may take a year or two. Fifth graders and older usually get it in just a few weeks.

Also, you need to be able to read music without finger numbers on the notes. Say you're playing Jingle Bells. It starts - 3 3 3 3 3 3... Write the '3' above the note, but leave out the following ones. This is the first step in reading without finger numbers.

The next step is reading adjacent notes. If the notes are - 1 2 3 4 5, Can you write the 1 above the first note and know what the following fingers are? The last step is reading notes that skip a finger. Here Comes the Bride starts in the left hand: 4 1 11. If you write the first 4, can you see what the next finger is?

Once you know your fingers without looking, add rhythms. Start with quarter notes and half notes (short and long). Count '1,2' on the half notes. Say 1 when as you press the key. Try a familiar song with an intentionally wrong rhythm to check your counting. Timing can be tricky. Counting is essential to master rhythm. Eventually you will memorize particular rhythms.

Remember that music is a language. It takes time: A few minutes to learn simple melodies to years to master classical etudes. But you can do it! Just keep going! (Just like Forest Gump) When I had three years of lessons, I dreamed of catching my teacher's best student. I did finally overtake him probably in my fifth year. The reason I've become a professional pianist is because I never quit! You should've seen my first recital! What a disaster! I was no genius. But after 32 years, you tend to get good at it.

A good teacher and method is important. A good teacher is both an instructor and motivator. If you live in the Seattle area, you can call me at 206-937-0618. The link at bottom will help you locate a teacher in your area. People that take lessons every other week progress slower than ones who take every week. The reason? Laziness! It's human nature. We're developing a teach-yourself method right now. It will combine my best knowledge of what works (based on 15 years of teaching) and DVDs to explain everything. Check back in January 2011! motivator and instructor Home